Axillary artery intra-aortic balloon pump (axIABP) placement has been implemented as a bridging solution before heart transplantation. This study evaluates complications associated with axIABP support and describes an approach to minimize adverse events. We previously described a percutaneous approach for axIABP placement. However, patients receiving axIABP between September 1, 2017, and September 26, 2019 (n = 32) demonstrated a high rate of balloon pump malfunction (8/32; 25%) and other complications (totaling 15/32; 47%). Sixty-four patients were sequentially treated under a revised protocol. Compared to the initial cohort, no significant differences in demographics were noted. A significant reduction in rate of balloon malfunction (8/32, 25% vs. 1/64, 2%; p < 0.001) and total complications (15/32, 47% vs. 10/64, 16%; p = 0.0025) during the period of support were noted after intervention. Subsequent analysis of total complications per device size (40 vs. ≤ 34 ml balloon) revealed significantly reduced complications in patients with smaller devices (40% vs. 13%, respectively; p = 0.0022). This study provides guidelines to limit complications in patients supported with axIABP, facilitating a protracted period of bridging support.
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