Ischemic Colitis Caused by Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Counterpulsation

Intra-aortic balloon pump counterpulsation (IABP) has been shown to prolong life in critically ill cardiac patients. However, complications including distal emboli, balloon rupture, bleeding, limb loss, and bowel ischemia continue to be associated with them. We present a case of a 56-year-old male who suffered bowel ischemia as a result of a malpositioned IABP. While the benefit of such devices in critically ill patients is not disputed, patients as well as clinicians should be aware of the potential side effects and patients undergoing IABP placement should be monitored for complications.