Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP)

The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) by definition is not one of the assist devices. It is the simplest form of “mechanical circulatory support“. A balloon inserted into the thoracic aorta through the femoral artery is inflated during diastole (Fig. 18). The increased blood pressure proximal to the balloon improves the coronary perfusion decisively. The advantages of this system are its rapid availability, ease of use and relatively low costs. The IABP has been used 1002 times in our clinic since 1979 up to March 2008, on average twice a week in recent years.