anastomosis
Pronunciation: ah-nas-tuh-MOH-sis
A surgical connection between two blood vessels, grafts, or hollow organs.
Full Definition
An anastomosis in cardiac surgery refers to the surgical joining of two vascular structures, typically between a graft and native vessel or between two vessels directly. The quality of the anastomosis is critical for long-term patency and function. Common types include end-to-side, side-to-side, and end-to-end configurations. In coronary surgery, distal anastomoses connect grafts to target coronary vessels, while proximal anastomoses connect grafts to the aorta. Proper surgical technique, including everting suture edges and avoiding tension, is essential for successful healing.
Usage
Usage note: Plural form is 'anastomoses'; avoid confusion with 'suture line' which refers specifically to the sewn connection.
In Context
- "The distal anastomosis to the LAD was performed with 7-0 polypropylene suture." — Operative report
- "Postoperative angiography revealed patent anastomoses without stenosis." — Post-operative imaging report