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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

IABP

Also written as: IABP — intra-aortic balloon pump

Intra-aortic balloon pump; mechanical circulatory support device that augments cardiac output.

Full Definition

The intra-aortic balloon pump is a temporary mechanical circulatory support device consisting of a balloon catheter inserted into the descending aorta via the femoral artery. The balloon inflates during diastole to increase coronary perfusion pressure and deflates during systole to reduce afterload and myocardial oxygen consumption. IABP provides counterpulsation that can improve cardiac output by 10-40% and is commonly used in cardiac surgery for patients with cardiogenic shock, high-risk procedures, or difficulty weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Contraindications include severe aortic regurgitation and significant peripheral arterial disease.

Usage

Usage note: Form of temporary mechanical circulatory support. Distinguish from other devices like ECMO or ventricular assist devices.

In Context

  • "Prophylactic IABP was placed due to severely reduced left ventricular function." — Pre-operative note
  • "The patient was successfully weaned from IABP on post-operative day 2." — Progress note

Also known as

intra-aortic balloon pump balloon pump

Don't confuse with

ECMO LVAD Impella

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