Intra-aortic balloon pump counterpulsation: technical function, management, and clinical indications.

Abstract

The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) was one of the fi rst mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices invented and 55 years later remains one of the most commonly used. 1 IABPs are used to assist patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), cardiogenic shock, or decompensated heart failure (HF), as well as support high-risk patients undergoing cardiac catheterization and surgery. This paper discusses the technology and physiology of IABP counterpulsation, technical aspects of its use, and indications for counterpulsation in a variety of medical and surgical settings. 1 including lung resections, liver resections, cesarean deliveries, hip replacements, and maxillofacial reconstruction.