An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) consists of a long inflatable balloon attached to a catheter that is inserted into the femoral artery and advanced into the thoracic aorta to enhance cardiac function in cardiogenic shock. The balloon is ideally positioned just below the subclavian artery to maximize diastolic pressure and oxygen delivery to the heart. Inflation during diastole increases blood flow to the heart while deflation during systole decreases ventricular workload to improve circulation.