A rare complication of intra-aortic balloon pump

Abstract

Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is commonly used for circulatory support in patients with cardiogenic shock. IABP is associated with several complications; however, IABP rupture was rarely reported. We present a female patient with acute myocardial infarction and ventricular septal rupture. The patient underwent transcatheter device closure of the ventricular septum and IABP insertion. After 4 days of insertion, we encountered a failure to cycle alarm. The IABP was removed with difficulty, and a leak coming from the shaft near the bifurcation was found. This case highlighted the importance of early detection of IABP rupture to avoid entrapment and further complications.