Clinical Research Directory

Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years or older age * Severe cardiogenic shock requiring the initiation of VA-ECMO therapy * Stabile hemodynamic state and oxigenation with VA-ECMO and vasoactive support * Informed written consent (due to the nature of the study, from a legally eligible relative of the patient) Exclusion Criteria: * Younger than 18 years of age * Unstable hemodynamic state or suboptimal oxigenation despite established VA-ECMO and vasoactive support * Severe neurological damage or confirmed brain death at the time of enrollment which squarely indicates therapy limitation and poor short-term outcome * Transesophageal echocardiography is contraindicated * Suboptimal echocardiographic window