What Is An Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump?

The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is helpful for maintaining heart function in people with left-side failure who are waiting for transplants as well as for those who develop a sudden and severe deterioration of heart function.

The IABP is a thin balloon that is inserted into the artery in the leg and threaded up to the aorta.

Its pumping action is generated by inflating and deflating the balloon within the aorta. Usually, it is used only for short periods (20 to 72 hours), but some studies indicate that patients may be able to use it safely for somewhat longer periods (an average duration of 23 days in one study).