A broad range of acute and chronic conditions reaching from hypovolaemic shock to ventricular tachycardia can present with circulatory failure. Hence, the approach for management of circulatory failure can vary considerably. This chapter focuses on circulatory failure due to pump failure of the heart and builds on general treatment strategies discussed in Chapters 91 and 92. Three major circulatory support therapies are discussed further: pharmacological therapy, balloon pumping, and surgically inserted devices. Treatment of circulatory failure unrelated to pump failure, and general measures such as fluid resuscitation, are beyond the scope of this chapter.
