UPMC Cardiogenic Shock Program Achieves Excellent Patient Outcomes
February 12, 2025
The Cardiogenic Shock Program at UPMC is nationally recognized as a leader in cardiogenic shock care. Led by cardiologist Gavin Hickey, MD, and Nicole Kunz, RN, the program achieves excellent clinical outcomes through their multidisciplinary approach and cutting-edge technology.
In 2024, the program achieved outstanding outcomes with a steady increase in survival and an increasing discharge home rate in cardiogenic shock patients. While cardiogenic shock classically carries a survival rate of only 50 to 60%, the UPMC Cardiogenic Shock team was able to achieve survival rates greater than 70% in 2024.
Additionally, while at the beginning of 2024 discharge home rate for cardiogenic shock patients was 31%, this improved to an incredible 49% over the last quarter.
Specifically, the team achieved great outcomes in patients supported on the Impella 5.5®. From 2020 to 2024, the team cared for 206 patients supported on Impella 5.5. From 2023 to 2024, mortality decreased from 36% to 31%, while native heart recovery increased from 23% to 29%.
Experts from UPMC also published research in 2024 evaluating the outcomes of patients with cardiogenic shock supported on Impella 5.0 or 5.5 (Hong et al., 2024). The study found that Impella 5.0 and 5.5 provide effective mechanical support for patients with cardiogenic shock with favorable outcomes.
“These outcomes are a testament to the skill and dedication of our team. Successfully managing cardiogenic shock cases is a team effort and could not be done without our interdisciplinary approach,” says Dr. Hickey. “Each team member brings their unique experience and expertise to the table. Our collaboration allows us to thoroughly and efficiently discuss each patient’s case and decide which treatment will have the best outcome.”
Multidisciplinary Approach to Cardiogenic Shock Care
The cardiogenic shock team takes a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating across specialties to provide lifesaving care to patients. Our team consists of cardiothoracic surgeons, critical care intensivists, heart failure transplant doctors, interventional cardiologists, nurses, bioengineers, and STAT MedEvac emergency medicine experts. We provide a variety of services to patients with cardiogenic shock including medical management, interventional cardiology procedures, and surgical procedures. We also offer advanced therapies such as VAD and heart transplant.
Refer a Patient
The UPMC Cardiogenic Shock Program facilitates a quick referral and evaluation process for patients. We're available 24/7 for patient consultations or transfer requests. Throughout the process, we maintain open and constant contact with referring physicians.
For patient consults or transfer requests, call Medcall at 412-647-7000 and dial 1 for cardiogenic shock.
