Counterpulsation
| Medical Definition: |
A technique for assisting the circulation by decreasing the afterload of the left ventricle and augmenting the diastolic pressure. It may be achieved by intra-aortic balloon, or by implanting a special pumping device in the chest, or externally by applying a negative pressure to the lower extremities during cardiac systole. |
| Guide Notes: |
a type of assisted circulation; do not use /util except by MeSH definition |
| Also Called: |
Counterpulsation, External,Diastolic Counterpulsation |
| Previously Indexed: |
Assisted Circulation (1967-1989),Blood Pressure (1966-1989),Heart-Assist Devices (1986-1989),Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumping (1977-1989) |
Counterpulsation Categories.
 |
Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumping - Counterpulsation in which a pumping unit synchronized with the patient's electrocardiogram rapidly fills a balloon in the aorta with helium or carbon dioxide in early diastole and evacuates the balloon at the onset of systole. As the balloon inflates, it raises aortic diastolic pressure, and as it deflates, it lowers aortic systolic pressure. The result is a decrease in left ventricular work and increased myocardial and peripheral perfusion. |
Counterpulsation Medical Definitions and Terms
|
|
|
 |
 |
 CANADIAN
MEDICAL GUIDE
|
| Thank you for visiting
Canadian Medical Guide .com | | | | | |
|
|
 |
   |
 |
Canadian Medical Guide Catagories
| | |
