Insertion of the Foley catheter has been recommended to control bleeding from penetrating cardiac wounds. Potential complications from this maneuver include enlargement of the tear in the myocardium or further impediment to cardiac function by the balloon. This study was done to evaluate the hemodynamic consequences of the balloon catheter when it was used to control bleeding in cardiac stab wounds created in pigs. A significant decrease in cardiac function occurred with control of the bleeding by the balloon catheter. This effect was dependent on the size of the balloon and cardiac location.