The technique of inserting an intra-aortic balloon pump.  Indications, contraindications, advice for avoiding complications.
The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) uses the timed inflation and deflation of a balloon placed in the descending aorta to augment coronary perfusion and reduce myocardial work.  The IABP is useful in a number of settings, including acute myocardial ischemia, cardiogenic shock, and mechanical complications of acute myocardial infarction; it also provides support to perioperative patients. Because the device can be inserted percutaneously, mechanical circulatory support can be instituted rapidly   Complications, most of which are reversible, occur in approximately 30% of patients.
John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek, California.
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A
Benn
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T
Feldman
D000075202:Contraindications; D015908:Counterpulsation / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D017202:Myocardial Ischemia / Q000628:therapy*