anastomotic bleeding
Pronunciation: ah-nas-tuh-MOT-ik BLEED-ing
Hemorrhage occurring at surgical connection sites between blood vessels or cardiac structures, requiring immediate attention and often revision.
Full Definition
Anastomotic bleeding refers to hemorrhage occurring at surgical connection sites (anastomoses) between blood vessels, grafts, or cardiac structures during or after cardiac surgery. This complication can occur at coronary artery bypass graft anastomoses, valve annuloplasty sites, or great vessel reconstructions, and represents a significant technical challenge requiring immediate surgical attention. Causes include technical factors such as suture line tension, tissue quality issues, coagulation disorders, or inadequate hemostasis. Management typically involves direct pressure, additional suturing, pledget reinforcement, or complete anastomotic revision in severe cases. Medical editors should note that anastomotic bleeding differs from generalized surgical bleeding and often requires specific documentation of the affected anastomotic site and corrective measures taken.
Usage
Usage note: Specify anatomical location when documenting; distinguish from systemic coagulopathy or generalized bleeding.
In Context
- "Significant anastomotic bleeding from the proximal LAD graft required placement of additional pledgeted sutures." — operative report
- "The patient returned to the operating room for control of anastomotic bleeding at the aortic cannulation site." — complication report