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Intra-aortic balloon pump

(Science: cardiology, equipment) a device which is threaded into the aorta that augments the strength of the hearts contraction.

The counter pulsation, produced by the inflation of a balloon within the aorta, provides an rhythmic increase in aortic pressures. The net effect is an increase in coronary artery blood flow. Intra-aortic balloon pump is a temporary lifesaving measure that is used to treat severe cardiac damage due to a massive heart attack.