Advanced
Technical
IVT
warm heart surgery
Cardiac surgical technique performed at normothermia using continuous coronary perfusion rather than cardioplegic arrest.
Full Definition
An alternative approach to cardiac surgery where the procedure is performed with the patient maintained at normal body temperature (37°C) while providing continuous perfusion to the coronary arteries with warm, oxygenated blood. This technique avoids the potential complications of hypothermia and ischemic arrest but requires specialized perfusion strategies and may limit surgical exposure. Some evidence suggests improved preservation of myocardial function, particularly in high-risk patients with poor ventricular function.
Usage
Usage note: Specialized technique; distinguish from off-pump surgery which avoids bypass entirely.
In Context
- "Warm heart surgery was chosen for this patient with severe left ventricular dysfunction." — Surgical plan
- "The continuous coronary perfusion technique allowed warm heart surgery throughout the procedure." — Perfusion protocol
Also known as
normothermic surgery
continuous perfusion surgery
Contrasted with
hypothermic surgery
cold cardioplegia
Don't confuse with
off-pump surgery
beating heart surgery