Optimal medical therapy may ameliorate acute cardiogenic shock and long-term congestive heart failure symptoms; however, in certain cases mechanical circulatory assistance may be helpful or even required. Different devices can be considered based on the anticipated duration of need and the acuity of the cardiovascular failure being treated. A working knowledge of balloon pumps and ventricular assist devices, their indications, function, and potential complications, allows the physician to provide optimal care for those patients presenting with such a device.