Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
ventricular decompression
Removal of blood and pressure from the left ventricle during cardiopulmonary bypass to prevent ventricular distension and myocardial damage.
Full Definition
The process of removing blood and reducing pressure within the left ventricle during cardiac surgery to prevent harmful ventricular distension. This is typically achieved through venting catheters placed in the left ventricle, pulmonary artery, or aortic root. Adequate ventricular decompression is crucial for myocardial protection, as an overdistended ventricle can lead to subendocardial ischemia, increased myocardial oxygen consumption, and impaired cardiac function after surgery.
In Context
- "Adequate ventricular decompression was maintained throughout the procedure via the aortic root vent." — Operative note
- "The anesthesiologist noted poor ventricular decompression and requested placement of an additional LV vent." — Intraoperative communication
Also known as
ventricular venting
LV decompression
Contrasted with
ventricular distention
Don't confuse with
ventricular distention