ACT Machine: Features, Price, Applications, and Financing Options

An intra-aortic balloon pump provides temporary circulatory support for selected patients with serious cardiac conditions. The device uses a balloon placed in the aorta to support the heart's pumping function.

• Supports circulation by improving coronary blood flow and reducing the heart's workload.
• The balloon inflates during diastole, when the heart relaxes, and deflates before systole, when the heart contracts.
• Clinicians may use an IABP in selected cases of cardiogenic shock, low cardiac output after cardiac surgery and other specific cardiac situations.
• The system includes an inflatable balloon catheter, a pump console, gas supply and monitoring controls.
• Brand, model, condition, monitoring capabilities, accessories, servicing and warranty affect the purchase price.
• Healthcare facilities should assess clinical requirements, staff training, maintenance support and the total cost of ownership before purchasing.

An IABP requires specialised clinical oversight and appropriate monitoring. Before purchasing one, assess the facility's intended use, infrastructure, trained personnel and ongoing operating costs alongside the equipment price.

Last reviewed: 09th October 2026

An IABP works through counter pulsation, a process that synchronises balloon movement with the heart's pumping cycle. The balloon inflates and deflates at specific points to support blood flow and reduce the workload on the left ventricle.

The operating cycle has two main phases:

1. Inflation during diastole: The balloon inflates when the heart relaxes. This increases pressure in the aorta and supports blood flow towards the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.
2. Deflation before systole: The balloon deflates just before the heart contracts. This reduces resistance against which the left ventricle pumps blood, helping lower its workload.

The pump console coordinates balloon movement with the patient's cardiac activity. Correct timing, monitoring and clinical supervision are essential for the device to function as intended. The device requires trained personnel to monitor the patient's condition, check the system and respond to changes during treatment.

An IABP supports circulation in selected patients who need temporary assistance with cardiac function. The treating team determines whether the device is appropriate after assessing the patient's condition, risks and treatment objectives.

An IABP is not appropriate for every patient with heart failure or a cardiac emergency. Its suitability depends on the diagnosis, haemodynamic status, contraindications and treatment plan.

An IABP system combines an inflatable catheter, a pump console and monitoring controls. Each component supports the device's operation and the clinical team's ability to monitor treatment.

The exact components and features depend on the manufacturer and model. Before purchasing a system, check compatibility, monitoring functions, included accessories, service support and training requirements.

IABP systems differ in their console design, operating features, monitoring functions and intended clinical environment. The right configuration depends on the facility's workload, infrastructure and clinical requirements.

These categories describe purchasing and equipment configurations rather than different clinical indications. Confirm the exact model classification and specifications with the manufacturer or authorised supplier before making a purchase decision.

The total cost of ownership includes the purchase price and the expenses involved in keeping the equipment operational. These costs can continue after the initial purchase.

Before approving a purchase, prepare a cost sheet covering:

• Equipment purchase price and applicable taxes.
• Installation, commissioning and training charges.
• Consumables and compatible accessories.
• Preventive maintenance and repairs.
• Warranty extensions or service contracts.
• Staff training and infrastructure requirements.
• Expected replacement costs and equipment downtime.

Request an itemised quotation from the supplier. Compare quotations using the same specifications and inclusions so that the purchase decision reflects the complete cost rather than only the initial price.

Before purchasing an IABP, confirm that the system matches your facility's clinical requirements, staffing capability and service infrastructure. A lower purchase price does not necessarily mean a lower total cost of ownership.

Use this checklist when evaluating a supplier's quotation.

• Clinical requirements: Confirm the intended use and required system specifications with the cardiology and critical care teams.
• Equipment compatibility: Check compatibility with existing monitoring systems, accessories and the facility's infrastructure.
• Supplier credentials: Verify the supplier's authorisation, equipment documentation and support arrangements.
• Warranty: Review the coverage period, exclusions, response times and conditions for repairs.
• Training: Confirm whether the supplier provides installation, commissioning and user training.
• Consumables: Check the availability, compatibility and recurring cost of catheters and other consumables.
• Maintenance: Assess preventive maintenance schedules, spare-parts availability and service support.
• Refurbishment records: For refurbished equipment, review inspection reports, service history and the condition of key components.
• Total cost: Compare the full purchase and operating cost, including taxes, installation and ongoing maintenance.

A written checklist helps you compare suppliers on consistent criteria. Obtain approval from the relevant clinical, biomedical engineering, procurement and finance teams before placing an order.

Medical Equipment Finance can help eligible healthcare professionals and healthcare facility promoters fund the purchase of medical equipment, subject to lender assessment and applicable terms. Bajaj Finance offers Medical Equipment Finance for eligible applicants who need funding for equipment purchases.

Key product details include:

• Loan amount: Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 30 crore, subject to eligibility and applicable terms.
• Repayment tenure: 3 months to 120 months, subject to eligibility and applicable terms.
• Funding assessment: The approved amount depends on the applicant's profile, repayment capacity, equipment purchase and applicable lending criteria.
• Repayment planning: Compare the proposed EMI and total interest with your facility's operating budget before deciding how much to borrow.