Wait until the ready signal appears. Pumping can now be initiated. Obtain another pump immediately in the event of pump shutdown due to a console failure. Initiate manual inflation and deflation of the balloon if 15-20 minutes of balloon inactivity occurs. A slip lock syringe is required to fit the helium line.
Air is instilled into the lumen where helium is normally inserted.
Never manual inflate a balloon if rupture is suspected. The goal is to quickly expand and collapse the balloon. The volume of air used should be 10 cc less than the size of the balloon. Rapid deflation is desired to minimize the risk of impeding ventricular outflow. N.B.we are not attempting to mimic the pump, therefore, timing of balloon movement to the cardiac cycle is not important.