cardioplegia
Pronunciation: kar-dee-oh-PLEE-jah
Solution used to arrest the heart and protect the myocardium during cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
Cardioplegia is a specialized solution administered to induce cardiac arrest and provide myocardial protection during cardiac surgery while the aorta is cross-clamped. The solution typically contains high concentrations of potassium to depolarize cardiac cells, along with other protective agents such as magnesium, calcium, and sometimes blood. Cardioplegia may be delivered antegradely through the aortic root or retrogradely through the coronary sinus. Temperature variations include cold (4-8°C) for metabolic suppression or warm for functional recovery. The goal is to maintain myocardial viability during the period of ischemia.
Usage
Usage note: Essential component of myocardial protection strategy. Composition and delivery method vary by institutional protocol.
In Context
- "Cold blood cardioplegia was administered every 20 minutes during the procedure." — Operative report
- "The heart arrested promptly following antegrade cardioplegia delivery." — Perfusion record