Cardiogenic and Non-cardiogenic Shock

Abstract

Shock secondary to cardiothoracic disease processes have multifactorial origings with grave prognosis. Imaging plays little role in the initial diagnosis of severe circulatory failure but is helpful in the evaluation of the underlying cause. Bedside echocardiography can be used to monitor ventricular and valvular function, identify the presence of pericardial effusion and guide treatment strategies. The role of chest radiograph is limited as it may be normal even when there is extensive acute pulmonary embolism; hence its role is mainly to exclude alternative causes of shock such as a tension pneumothorax. Cardiac CT is not an appropriate tool for investigation of acute coronary syndrome, particularly in unstable cases.