Dynamics of intraaortic counterpulsation with double-segmented balloons
The dynamics of a double-segmented intraaortic balloon and its interaction with the cardiovascular system were characterized by use of an analog electrical model. With computer simulations the model generated a broad spectrum of data regarding the effectiveness of the cardiac assistance. The result showed that, with proper balloon configurations and inflation/deflation rates, a double-segmented design improved the diastolic augmentation. However, no improvement on the systolic unloading was observed.<<ETX>>