Wide Complex Tachycardia as a Rare Pointer of Intra-aortic Balloon Pump Migration Into the Left Ventricle: A Case Report and Literature Review

TL;DR

A rare case of a heart pump device migrating into the left ventricle caused dangerous heart rhythm issues in a patient with heart failure.

Contribution

This case report highlights a rare complication of axillary IABP use, specifically arrhythmia due to device migration into the left ventricle.

Findings

Axillary IABP allows ambulation in patients with cardiogenic shock.

IABP migration into the left ventricle can cause ventricular arrhythmia.

This case underscores the need for close monitoring during IABP use.

Abstract

Intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABPs) are used to assist with left ventricular (LV) unloading in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS). There are different mechanical devices that can be used in CS, of which the IABP represents the simplest, the easiest to insert and remove, and the most cost-effective. Compared to traditional femoral IABPs, axillary IABPs allow patients to remain ambulatory. This is especially beneficial in patients awaiting heart transplants. Our case presents a patient with CS, where axillary IABP was used to unload the LV. However, our patient developed ventricular arrhythmia secondary to IABP migration to the LV.

Figures