Transbrachial insertion of an intra-aortic balloon pump for complex coronary angioplasty

Transfemoral insertion of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) for hemodynamic support is a useful adjunct in patients undergoing complex percutaneous revascularization procedures. However, this approach is not always possible, particularly in patients with severe occlusive peripheral vascular disease. We describe the first reported case of insertion of IABP through the brachial artery.