An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is a long inflatable tube with a balloon near the end that inflates and deflates and is positioned in the aorta. The balloon inflates and deflates in time with the heart and assists the heart in pumping blood to the rest of the body and also the heart itself.
The Procedure
A balloon pump is inserted by a doctor in either the intensive care unit, the operating theatre, or the cardiac catheter lab (cath lab). It is inserted into the femoral artery near the groin and is attached to a special console which sits at the end of the bed. Helium gas is used to inflate the balloon.
The Risks
A balloon pump may damage the femoral artery or the aorta. It may also impair blood supply to other parts of the body such as the leg, or if placed too high or low in the aorta, the arms or the kidneys. Correct placement is monitored through daily chest x-rays, and by close monitoring of upper limbs and the kidneys. There is also a small risk of blood clot formation and gas leakage into the blood stream. The patient and the balloon pump is constantly monitored for complications.
