Which of the following is a potential embolic complication of IABP?

• A. Emboli: thrombus, plaque, air
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. DVT in leg
• D. Jaundice

Answer: (A)

Embolic complications with an intra-aortic balloon pump come from material that can enter the systemic circulation during use. Thrombus can form on the catheter or within the circuit and be released with the device’s cycles. Atherosclerotic plaque in the aorta can be disturbed by catheter manipulation, sending plaque debris downstream. Air can also be introduced into the circuit and act as an embolus. Any of these emboli can travel to the brain, heart, kidneys, or limbs and cause ischemia. The other options don’t fit because hypoglycemia is a metabolic issue, a leg DVT is a venous issue related to immobility or access rather than an arterial embolus from the IABP, and jaundice relates to liver or biliary problems rather than an embolic event.