Diagnostic and therapy of postoperative cardiac low-output-syndrome by means of intraaortic balloon pumping (IABP) or external counterpulsation (ECP)--a comparison (author's transl)

Abstract

A beneficial influence on the myocardial energy imbalance of the hypoxaemically damaged heart can be reached with either intraaortic balloon pumping (IABP) or external counterpulsation (ECP). In the realm of our acquired clinical experience with two groups of patients, the technical demands of these cardiac assist devices are discussed and distinguished from one another in relation to different indications.