So I think before diving into this case, think it would be helpful to review definitions of MCS and LVADs.

So when we talk about MCS, what that stands for is mechanical circulatory support, and that really describes the range of devices.

But essentially, all of these devices enhance systemic perfusions in patients who have cardiogenic shock or advanced heart failure that's refractory to interventions.

And then when we think about it even further, these MCS s-systems can be classified into short-term and long-term support devices.

So for short-term devices, these are ones that support patients through these high-risk procedures or periods, like cardiogenic shock, for example, to allow us to have time to understand their prognosis, to guide definitive treatment or serve as a bridge to transplant.

And these devices include the Impella, which is essentially a short-term VAD, um, or ventricular assist device, the intra-aortic balloon pump or ECMO.

And then long-term support devices are typically used for patients who have end-stage heart failure, and they can be used as a bridge to transplant, a bridge to decision on whether or not somebody will qualify for a transplant, or it could be used as a bridge to recovery.

So what are the twenty twenty-four definitions?