Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a complex and life‐threatening condition characterized by a sudden and profound reduction in cardiac output, leading to inadequate tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery and organ dysfunction despite adequate intravascular volume. Despite advances in medical therapy, the mortality rate for CS remains high, ranging from 30% to 70%.

With the increasing prevalence of CS due to an increase in the number of patients with heart disease, many advances have been made in the management of patients with CS refractory to conventional medical therapy. Various mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices have been added to the armamentarium of acute heart failure therapies. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) is a form of MCS that can provide temporary support for both the heart and lungs, and it has evolved as a valuable rescue therapy for patients with severe or refractory CS. The timing of ECMO initiation is a critical factor in determining its effectiveness.