Ruptured intra-aortic balloon pump. A case report.

The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is the gold standard for the mechanical assistance of failing heart. Balloon rupture is a potential complication that may result in a retained device. The operative removal by direct exposure of the femoral vessels has previously been described. We report the case of a retained IABP requiring laparotomy and direct aortic exposure for removal of the device.