Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP)

When the heart has been weakened by severe congestive heart failure caused by a heart attack or a heart valve problem, it can use some help pumping blood. The Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) is a temporary mechanical device used to reduce the workload of the heart and to improve the flow of blood to the coronary arteries.

The IABP consists of a catheter, with a balloon tip like a deflated sausage, and a pump that stands at the bedside.

If the patient's conditions warrant an IABP the cardiologist inserts the catheter through an incision in the groin artery, up into the aorta.

When the balloon tip is correctly placed in the aorta, the pump is turned on. The pump is carefully timed to inflate and deflate the balloon in rhythm with the beat of the heart. After each heartbeat, the balloon inflates, partly obstructing the aorta. This raises diastolic blood pressure, and forces blood into the heart arteries to nourish the heart itself. Then, just before the next beat, the balloon collapses, creating a vacuum in the arteries that makes it easier for the heart to push oxygen-rich blood out to the body.

When placement is completed, the patient goes immediately to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit where he or she is carefully monitored. While the IABP is in place, the patient must remain in bed, and will be asked to keep the affected leg straight. It is common to feel the rhythmic pumping of the machine. It is important to tell the nurse if there is any sudden pain or wetness at the IABP catheter insertion site. Patients have one to one nursing care when IABP therapy is used in CICU.

The balloon catheter is removed as soon as either the heart is able to function more strongly on its own, or the problem is treated through surgery or medication.