Comparison of driving gases for IABPs

Several aspects of CO2 vs He as the driving gas in intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation systems were reviewed and investigated. Carbon dioxide seems to be significantly safer than other gases, but not benign. Helium produces a faster balloon response, but the physiologic significance has not been defined. Balloon driving gases become diluted in relatively short time. Leak detection systems have significant limitations. It seems prudent for users of dual-balloon systems to periodically measure the PCO2 of the driving gas. A better method of purging the single-balloon system was developed.