Essence of Cardiopulmonary Bypass Circuit and Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump

The modern day CPB circuit consists of a series of tubing, pumps, oxygenator, heat exchanger, and numerous safety and electrical components that allow for complete circulatory support, regulation of gas exchange and temperature control. This chapter outlines the fundamentals of cardiopulmonary bypass, associated physiological derangements and utilisation of intra-aortic balloon pumps in cardiac surgical patients.