Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
IABP
Also written as: IABP — intra-aortic balloon pump
Intra-aortic balloon pump, a mechanical cardiac support device.
Full Definition
The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is a mechanical circulatory support device consisting of a balloon catheter placed in the descending aorta. It inflates during diastole to increase coronary perfusion and deflates during systole to reduce afterload and improve cardiac output. IABP is used in cardiogenic shock, high-risk coronary interventions, bridge to surgery, or as a stabilizing measure in acute coronary syndromes. Contraindications include severe aortic regurgitation and aortic dissection.
Usage
Usage note: Specify augmentation ratio (1:1, 1:2) when describing IABP settings in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "IABP insertion was performed emergently for refractory cardiogenic shock." — cardiac catheterization report
- "The patient's hemodynamics improved significantly after IABP placement with 1:1 augmentation." — intensive care progress note
Also known as
intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation
balloon pump
Don't confuse with
ECMO
LVAD