European heart journal
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European heart journal · May 1999
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialA randomized comparison of intra-aortic balloon pumping after primary coronary angioplasty in high risk patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Intra-aortic balloon pumping reduces afterload and may be effective in improving reperfusion in high risk infarct patients treated with primary angioplasty. ⋯ Systematic use of intra-aortic balloon pumping after primary angioplasty does not lead to myocardial salvage or to a better clinical outcome in high-risk infarct patients. Use of intra-aortic balloon pumping after primary PTCA for acute myocardial infarction should be reserved for patients with severe haemodynamic compromise.