Chinese Med J Peking
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Chinese Med J Peking · Jul 2013
Factors influencing outcomes of intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation in elderly patients.
Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) is a mechanical cardiac-assist device that is used for cardiac support. There are no published reports about the use of IABP in elderly Chinese patients, especially for those over 80 years old. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical outcomes, influencing factors, and complications in patients ≥80 years old and requiring IABP. ⋯ IABP may be successfully and safely employed in patients ≥80 years old, having severe heart disease, with few complications. Patients ≥80 years old who need IABP therapy are less likely to have a successful revascularization and are more likely to develop pulmonary infections than patients <80 years old.