What is a primary consequence of decreased coronary perfusion during late inflation of the IABP?

Decreased coronary perfusion during the late inflation of the Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) primarily leads to myocardial ischemia. The IABP functions by inflating and deflating in synchronization with the cardiac cycle, which influences coronary blood flow.

During diastole, when the balloon inflates, it enhances blood flow to the coronary arteries by creating a backflow against the aortic pressure. However, if there is a decrease in coronary perfusion during the late inflation phase, it means that the balloon may not be fully synchronized with the cardiac cycle, leading to diminished blood flow to the myocardium. This inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients can result in myocardial ischemia, potentially causing chest pain, further deterioration of cardiac function, and even myocardial infarction.

This understanding underscores the importance of proper timing and synchronization of the IABP with the cardiac cycle to optimize coronary perfusion and prevent ischemic damage to the heart muscle. Other options, while related to cardiac function, do not directly address the specific consequence of decreased coronary perfusion related to IABP operation.