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. Stop pumping and clamp the helium line immediately if balloon rupture is identified. Blood in the helium line is diagnostic of balloon rupture. Any blood in the helium line is diagnostic of balloon rupture. The patient is without IABP assistance.