The development of invasive cardiology laboratories and cardiothoracic surgery departments, enables causal treatment and mechanical heart support, hence a better prognosis for patients in shock. In addition to cardiogenic shock, we can also speak of other types of shock, due to the type of circulatory disturbance. Thus, we also distinguish between hypovolaemic shock, neurogenic shock, septic shock and anaphylactic shock. Cardiogenic shock itself is caused by damage or impairment of the mechanical work of the heart as a pump, resulting in a lower ejection capacity of the heart.

The most common cause of cardiogenic shock is acute myocardial infarction. It is also important to note that data from recent years indicate that in approximately 3 - 10 % of patients after myocardial infarction, cardiogenic shock is a complication. The primary symptoms of shock include cold, moist skin, cyanosis, impaired consciousness, and a systolic blood pressure of <90 mm Hg that persists for 30 minutes. The most commonly undertaken treatment, as well as reducing mortality by half, is primary angioplasty. [1]