IABP therapy has been in use for more than 30 years. It is used as a means to help restore the balance between the supply of oxygen-rich blood the heart receives from the coronary arteries, and the amount of oxygen the heart needs to pump. Balloon pumps typically support patients during open-heart surgery, coronary angioplasty, and in other cases where the heart is functioning abnormally (indications for use). IAB catheters can be inserted under local anesthesia. Improvements in the technology over the years have resulted in a reduction of patient risk and discomfort. Specially trained doctors, nurses, and clinicians administer IABP therapy.
"Balloon Pump Therapy - When Your Heart Needs Help", is supplied for patients, families, and other individuals who want to know more about the basic principles of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) therapy and the relief it can bring to an ailing heart. Datascope is also available at any time to answer questions. Click on Contact Cardiac Assist to send an e-mail or find the phone number of the nearest Datascope office.