pubmed-article:10155228 | pubmed:abstractText | Patients with complex coronary arterial stenoses, decreased ejection fraction, or acute myocardial infarction are at increased risk during percutaneous coronary interventions. Intraaortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) can provide benefit in such cases by several mechanisms. Myocardial perfusion is improved and left ventricular afterload is reduced by balloon counterpulsation. Patients with cardiogenic shock clearly benefit from balloon counterpulsation until revascularization can be performed. Recent studies have documented the utility of balloon counterpulsation in patients undergoing angioplasty as treatment for an acute myocardial infarction. Balloon counterpulsation is also an effective means to reduce ischemia and provide hemodynamic support during complex percutaneous coronary interventions. This review will summarize the benefits, indications, and complications of balloon counterpulsation during acute myocardial infarction and high-risk coronary angioplasty. | lld:pubmed |