The Intra-aortic Balloon Pump: A Focused Review of Physiology, Transport Logistics, Mechanics, and Complications.

Critical care transport medicine (CCTM) teams are playing an increasing role in the care of patients in cardiogenic shock requiring mechanical circulatory support devices. Hence, it is important that CCTM providers are familiar with the pathophysiology of cardiogenic shock, the role of mechanical circulatory support, and the management of these devices in the transport environment. The intra-aortic balloon pump is a widely used and accessible cardiac support device capable of increasing cardiac output and reducing work on the left ventricle through diastolic augmentation and counterpulsation.

Reducing Door-in Door-out Intervals in Helicopter ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Interhospital Transfers.

Background: Many health systems rely on helicopter EMS (HEMS) to transfer ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to a hospital with a catheterization laboratory. Mortality rates increase with the time to reperfusion, so reducing delays is imperative. For interhospital STEMI transfers, the time spent in the initial hospital from arrival until departure (door-in to door-out interval or DIDO) should be minimized.