Abstract: Cardiogenic shock (CS) is defined as a state of critical tissue hypoperfusion and endorgan failure because of reduced cardiac output. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a prominent cause of CS. Despite advances in interventional and medical treatment, CS remains the leading cause of death in AMI. Early revascularization can reduce the mortality. The guideline for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) indicates that emergency revascularization is recommended in suitable patients with cardiogenic shock due to pump failure after AMI regardless of the duration of the disease. The type of revascularization, either PCI or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), might the optimal treatment strategy. The use of mechanical circulatory support devices appears to provide temporary circulatory support for patients with CS.

Key words: myocardial infarction, shock, cardiogenic, coronary artery bypass, off-pump, percutaneous coronary intervention