Objective To analyze the results of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) support in patients receiving coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and the risk factors of postoperative death. Methods The clinical data of 334 patients undergoing CABG procedure and receiving IABP support in Fuwai Hospital from January 1999 to April 2012 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the IABP insertion timing, the patients were divided into three groups: pre-, intra- and postoperative IABP groups. There were 45 males and 11 females aged 60.5±10.7 years in the preoperative IABP group, 84 males and 23 females aged 61.1±8.4 years in the intraoperative IABP group and 119 males and 52 females aged 61.4±8.5 years in the postoperative IABP group.Outcomes of the three groups were compared, including mortality, major complications, ICU stay, hospital stay and total costs. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to predict independent risk factors for postoperative in-hospital death. Results The total in-hospital mortality was 16.8% (56/334). Mortality was significantly different among the pre-, intra- and postoperative IABP groups (3.6% vs.23.4%vs. 17.0%, P=0.006). There was no significant difference in complications among the three groups (P=0.960). Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that independent risk factors for postoperative mortality included old age (OR=1.05, P=0.040), female (OR=3.34, P<0.001) and increasing left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD,OR=1.06, P=0.040). Preoperative IABP support was protective factor (OR=0.10, P=0.050). Conclusion The results of IABP support in CABG patients are satisfactory, and patients with preoperative IABP have a lower mortality. Risk factors for postoperative death include old age, female and increasing LVEDD. Preoperative IABP support is a protective factor.