indications

Last reviewed 01/2018

The indications for intraaortic balloon pumping are:

  • low cardiac output:
    • left ventricular function should be reversible e.g. correctable mitral incompetence

  • unstable angina pectoris:
    • angina is improved by reducing cardiac after-load and improving coronary blood flow
    • investigation (angiography) and definitive treatment (byepass surgery or angioplasty) should be initiated as soon as possible

  • left heart failure during recovery from cardiac surgery