Abstract
The number of elderly and critical condition patients who require aortocoronary bypass (A-C bypass) surgery continues to increase, whereas those who require intraaortic balloon pumping (IABP) remains constant. Between 1991-1996, we performed A-C bypass surgery on 244 patients. Of these patients, 49 (20%) required IABP. The direct ascending aortic cannulation technique for IABP insertion was performed on 2 of the 49 cases. Cannulation was performed using two 3-0 polyester braided purse string sutures in regions of lower calcification, following ligation. The patients were weaned from IABP without complications. Therefore, balloon catheter insertion via the ascending aorta appears to be an effective and safe technique for use during A-C bypass. However, in the case of critical condition patients, special attention must be paid postoperative recovery course.
