A left heart vent catheter that includes an elongate tube having a hollow passageway is provided with a plurality of openings and a balloon near the distal end. The balloon can be inflated after the catheter is in place so as to engage a desired part of the heart such as the aortic valve or tricuspid valve and thereby prevent undesired withdrawal of the catheter. The openings near the distal end permit fluid to be withdrawn from the heart through the hollow passageway. After the surgical procedure has been completed, the balloon can be collapsed and the catheter can be withdrawn.
