The TAM inflatable bridge plug can be run in open hole as a base for a cement plug or whipstock to allow sidetracking. Using an inflatable bridge plug in open hole greatly enhances the quality of the cement plug, as fluid migration is eliminated below the bridge plug during the curing process. Potential fluid loss to low-pressure or high-permeability reservoirs is also eliminated. Fluid migration, which is often considered the cause of the poor quality and/or low strength of open hole cement plugs, can be controlled through the use of an inflatable bridge plug.

Using a retrievable or permanent inflatable bridge plug versus a conventional, mechanical-set plug offers greater flexibility and reduces costs associated with abandonment operations.