A new device for insertion of an intraaortic balloon catheter via the ascending aorta

Although transfemoral insertion of a balloon catheter is conventionally utilized, a trans-ascending aortic approach may be selected in patients following failure of or contraindication to femoral artery cannulation. A new device was developed to insert the catheter of an intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) through the ascending aorta to the descending aorta securely. The device consists of three instruments: a needle dilator, a curved sheath, and a balloontipped guide catheter. We successfully inserted and placed an IABP through the ascending aorta in an experimental study in a dog. We anticipate satisfactory results in clinical application of this device.