[Errors and dangers during insertion of the intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation device]

The authors describe complications arising when indwelling a balloon counter pulsator observed in 4 out of 47 patients such as perforation of the iliac artery with the catheter--in 1 patient; 360 degrees bend of the catheter in the iliac artery--in 1 patient; difficulties in the conducting of the catheter through the femoral artery resulting from stenosing atherosclerosis of the artery--in 2 patients. The authors recommend some means for the prevention and liquidation of such complications.