intra-aortic balloon pump
Mechanical circulatory support device that augments coronary perfusion and reduces afterload.
Full Definition
An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is a temporary mechanical circulatory support device used in emergency cardiology for cardiogenic shock or high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention. The device consists of a balloon catheter placed in the descending aorta that inflates during diastole to improve coronary blood flow and deflates during systole to reduce cardiac workload. IABP insertion is typically performed via femoral artery access under fluoroscopic guidance. The device provides hemodynamic support while allowing time for myocardial recovery or as a bridge to more definitive therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; abbreviation IABP is acceptable after first use.
In Context
- "An intra-aortic balloon pump was inserted for refractory cardiogenic shock." — Consultation note
- "The IABP was set to 1:1 augmentation with optimal timing." — ICU progress note