Percutaneous left ventricular support in cardiogenic shock and severe aortic regurgitation

Severe aortic regurgitation (AR) is a well‐established contraindication to intra‐aortic balloon counterpulsation therapy. We report two cases of medically refractory cardiogenic shock in patients with severe AR who were successfully bridged to surgical left ventricular assist device implantation by percutaneous left atrial to femoral artery mechanical bypass. Further investigation into the clinical utility of percutaneous mechanical support in the setting of AR and shock is required. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.