Impact of engineering design on intraaortic balloon efficiency

Abstract

Diastolic augmentation of coronary circulation has proven to be life saving for the failing heart. One circulatory assist method, intraaortic balloon counterpulsation (IABC), employs a balloon catheter device situated in the thoracic descending aorta which is inflated during diastole and deflated during systole. This work reviews the evolution of balloon engineering design, enhancing the effectiveness of counterpulsation with the impetus of reducing complications and improving hemodynamic performance.<>