Subclavian artery access for ambulatory balloon pump insertion.

Intraaortic balloon pump insertion is traditionally performed through the femoral artery in the groin. However, this restricts the patient to bed rest, and prolonged implantation can be associated with infections in the groin crease. We describe a technique of insertion of a balloon pump through the subclavian artery, which allows the patient to ambulate. This technique can also be performed under local anesthesia in the cardiac catheterization laboratory.