The technique of inserting an intra-aortic balloon pump. Indications, contraindications, advice for avoiding complications.

The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) uses the timed inflation and deflation of a balloon placed in the descending aorta to augment coronary perfusion and reduce myocardial work. The IABP is useful in a number of settings, including acute myocardial ischemia, cardiogenic shock, and mechanical complications of acute myocardial infarction; it also provides support to perioperative patients. Because the device can be inserted percutaneously, mechanical circulatory support can be instituted rapidly Complications, most of which are reversible, occur in approximately 30% of patients.