What is an intra-aortic balloon pump?

Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is also sometimes called an intra-aortic balloon counterpart pump. It is a device used by surgeons who treat patients with heart. This device consists of a thin, inflatable tube called a catheter that is connected to the balloon. IABP also contains a device for inflating and release of the balloon as well as a gas container.

Aorta is an artery that carries blood from the heart to other blood vessels. The intra-aortic balloon pump works by inflating when the heart receives blood and releases when the heart draws blood out. It can automatically maintain the pace with a patient's heart rhythm using a pacemaker or timing device. IABP serves to increase the blood flow and reduce the amount of work that the heart needs. Ischemia occurs when the heart does not have enough oxygen, which may be narrow or blocking blood vessels. Sometimes IABP equipment can be used for patients who have heart surgery. This helps the surgeon to evaluate the bloodpressure in the aorta.

Patients who need an intra-aortic balloon pump use it only temporarily. Usually the device is used to a maximum of several days. Some patients can use the devices longer, such as the Moon. The disadvantage of using the device longer than a few days is that the patient must be constantly connected to the computer controls.

For inserting an intra-aortic balloon pump, the surgeon first administers the patient a drug for blood threshold. Furthermore, a cut will be cut in one of the patient's legs, near the area of ​​the weakness. Another cut will be made in the artery. The catheter can then be visited to the artery to reach the aorta, near the heart. Occasionically, the surgeon may decide not to use the artery of the legs, but instead place the catheter directly in the chest.

Some patients may not gain full benefits from IABP. Patients who have blood vessels, diabetes or those who smoke, may be exposed to a greater risk of complications from this procedure. If the patient has suffered serious heart damage, IABP may not work as well. Patients suffering from complications from this facility may have infection, blood clots and poor circulation.

Intra-aortic balloon pump can lead to some side effects. Patients should immediately inform their carer if the dressing is saturated with blood. Other side effects include fever, chills or burning pain at the place of insertion.