What is the optimal position of the tip of an intra-aortic balloon pump?
A) 2 cm above the carina
B) 4 cm above the carina
C) 7 cm above the carina
D) In the upper third of the carina

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The balloon inflates during diastole and deflates during systole to enhance perfusion of the coronary arteries and cardiac output. The radiopaque tip should reside just beyond the origin of the left subclavian artery within the proximal descending thoracic aorta. The carina can be used as a landmark with the tip of the IABP approximately 2 cm above the carina.

What Is the Optimal Position of the Tip of an Intra-Aortic