CPB
Pronunciation: C-P-B
Also written as: CPB — cardiopulmonary bypass
Cardiopulmonary bypass, the technique of temporarily taking over heart and lung function during cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is an essential technique in cardiac surgery that involves mechanically circulating and oxygenating the patient's blood outside the body while the heart is stopped or excluded from circulation. The CPB circuit consists of venous cannulas for blood drainage, a reservoir, oxygenator, heat exchanger, arterial filter, and pump to return blood to the patient's arterial system. This technology enables surgeons to operate on a motionless heart while maintaining perfusion to vital organs. CPB management requires specialized perfusionist expertise and careful monitoring of flow rates, pressures, and blood gases throughout the procedure.
Usage
Usage note: Standard abbreviation for cardiopulmonary bypass. Distinguish from ECMO which is typically for support rather than surgical facilitation.
In Context
- "The patient was placed on CPB with standard aortic and bicaval cannulation." — Operative report
- "CPB time was 95 minutes with an uneventful weaning process." — Surgical summary