Abstract
A new Teflon intraaortic balloon catheter was developed whose balloon size 35 cc, length 65 cm, and tube diameter is 7 F. Inside its balloon portion, another tube (outer diameter: 5 mm, length: 20 cm, made of polyurethane) is incorporated and permits the insertion of a left ventricle (LV) vent catheter (outer diameter 12 F, length 95 cm, made of Teflon) through this tube. On the tip of the tube, a silicon valve is attached to prevent blood regurgitation after removal of the vent catheter. This system enables concomitant exertion of transaortic valve LV venting and intraaortic ballon pumping (IABP) while applying PCPS support, and exclusive removal of the vent catheter during weaning from the PCPS. Mock circulation study estimated that the maximal vent flow of the corresponding vent catheter is 600 ml/ min.
