A computer-controlled mechanism inflates the balloon with helium from a cylinder during diastole, usually linked to either an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a pressure transducer at the distal tip of the catheter; some IABPs, such as the Datascope System 98XT, allow asynchronous counterpulsation at a set rate, though this setting is rarely used. Helium is used because its low viscosity allows it to travel quickly through the long connecting tubes, but has a higher risk than air of causing an embolism should the balloon rupture.
A computer-controlled mechanism inflates the balloon with helium from a cylinder during diastole, usually linked to either an electrocardiogram (ECG) or a pressure transducer at the distal tip of the catheter; some IABPs, such as the Datascope System 98XT, allow asynchronous counterpulsation at a set rate, though this setting is rarely used. Helium is used to inflate the balloon as it is low density means there is little turbulent flow, so the balloon can inflate fast and deflate slowly. It is also relatively benign and eliminated quickly if there is a leak or rupture in the balloon.<litfl.com/intra-aortic-balloon-pump-ccc/></ref>
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because its low viscosity allows it to travel quickly through the long connecting tubes, but has a higher risk than air of causing an embolism should the balloon rupture.
to inflate the balloon as it is low density means there is little turbulent flow, so the balloon can inflate fast and deflate slowly. It is also relatively benign and eliminated quickly if there is a leak or rupture in the balloon.<litfl.com/intra-aortic-balloon-pump-ccc/></ref>