J Cardiovasc Surg
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Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) therapy before open heart surgery has been suggested for ''high risk'' patients. ⋯ Perioperative morbidity and mortality is increased despite preoperative IABP, particularly in patients with acute MI. In contrast to studies not using this approach, preoperative IABP reduces morbidity and mortality of high risk patients. IABP related complications are low. Our data suggest that high risk patients profit from preoperative IABP therapy, however, prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.