Safe intraaortic balloon pump placement through the ascending aorta using transesophageal ultrasound

Intraaortic balloon pumping salvages a substantial number of patients who fail to be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass after an open heart operation. Patients with severe peripheral vascular disease may require ascending aortic balloon pump insertion. We describe a simple method of direct aortic puncture for intraaortic balloon pump placement using transesophageal ultrasound as a means of avoiding complications during insertion and documenting correct balloon position.