This book is aimed at broad spectrum of intensive and coronary care personnel and provides rapid access to important information on the treatment of the patient in the coronary care unit (CUU), in an easily readable and accessible format. It comprises a series of articles on key aspects of emergency care of the cardiac patient and reviews some of the most advanced concepts in the CCU. Whilst assuming a basic knowledge of underlying problems, the book nonetheless outlines key physiological principles where necessary, and critically reviews current literature and best practice. The book focuses on providing key practical information on treatment techniques for busy CUU personnel and features some important topics such as shock, sever sepsis, echocardiography, catheter-based treatments for acute cardiac emergencies, cardiac arrest and CPR, cardiogenic shock, heart failure and the role of surgical intervention.