IABP timing and ventricular performance - comparison between a compliant and a stiffer aorta: a hybrid model study including baroreflex

Methods: The study was conducted using a hybrid cardiovascular simulator, including a computational cardiovascular sub-model, a hydraulic sub-model of the descending aorta, and a baroreflex computational sub-model. A 40 cc balloon was inserted into a rubber tube component of the hydraulic sub-model. A comparative analysis was conducted for two aortic compliances (C1 = 2.4 and C2 = 1.43 cm(3)/mmHg, corresponding to an aortic pulse pressure of 23 mmHg and 35 mmHg, respectively), driving the balloon for different trigger timings.