[Perforation and entrapment of an intra-aortic balloon: a complication related to the duration of implantation].

A 69-year-old man was admitted to the Intensive Care Recovery Unit after heart surgery, carrying an intra balloon counterpulsation (IABCP) device inserted percutaneously days before surgery to provide hemodynamic support and which was still required after surgery. Fifteen days after insertion, blood was observed in the safety chamber. Surgical removal of the catheter was required when attempts to remove it manually failed. The balloon was seen to be perforated and clotted blood was found inside. We believe that long-term maintenance of IABCP carries high risk of perforation and entry of blood, which will clot, as well as of catheter entrapment unless removal is prompt.