[Fundamental features on percutaneous cardiopulmonary support]

The fundamental features on percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (PCPS) were reviewed. The number of PCPS installation in Japan has been increasing especially in the area of emergency medicine and cardiology. All-in-one package for PCPS system is becoming a mainstream in clinical practice. It is considered to be crucial to understand the details in characteristics and pitfalls on respective products. The results of nation-wide questionnaire indicate that the detailed criteria for PCPS usage in clinical practice appear to be variable among facilities in Japan;therefore, the formulation of guideline and educational system for PCPS installation is required.