Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a complex multifactorial illness characterized by diminished end-organ perfusion because of reduced cardiac output. Established criteria for diagnosing CS exist; however, right heart catheterization with assessment of cardiac index and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure is typically recommended for risk stratification and further management [ , ]. The spectrum of CS is wide ranging, from mild hypoperfusion to profound shock. Acute myocardial infarction with subsequent ventricular failure is the most common cause of CS, contributing to approximately 80 % of cases. Various classification schemes have been used for CS, the most widely utilized of which has been the 2019 Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Intervention (SCAI) categorization into 5 stages [ ]. This SCAI staging was further refined to a 3-axis model in an expert consensus update [ ]. Other modifications have also been proposed by the Cardiogenic Shock Working Group (CSWG), which can improve clinical application of the SCAI staging system [ ]. The treatment goal for CS is to maintain adequate blood pressure and end-organ perfusion, which may be achieved with volume resuscitation, oxygenation, ventilation, and pharmacotherapies including vasopressor and inotropic support. CS refractory to these therapies requires initiation of temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices.