Intraaortic Counterpulsation During Cardiopulmonary Bypass Impairs Distal Organ Perfusion

Provocative study that analyzes lower body perfusion in a porcine model during cardiopulmonary bypass with an actuated IABP in place to effect pulsatile perfusion.  Parameters of distal perfusion including measurement of pressures and microsphere perfusion indicate that flow distal to the balloon pump may be impaired.