Emergency guidelines for AVCO/datascope intraaortic balloon pump console substitution.

Intraaortic balloon pumping is widely utilized for mechanical circulatory support of patients with left ventricular power failure. Although intraaortic balloon pump consoles are quite reliable, malfunctions do occur. If a standby console of similar make is not available, a console of a different manufacturer can be utilized to continue counterpulsation. This article provides guidelines for the emergency driving of a Datascope pump console and an AVCO balloon catheter, and an AVCO pump console and a Datascope balloon catheter. The succesful use of the Datascope pump and an AVCO balloon in 5 patients is reported.