Intermediate
Technical
IVT
aortic cross-clamp
Surgical clamp placed on the aorta to isolate the heart during cardiac procedures.
Full Definition
An aortic cross-clamp is a specialized surgical instrument placed across the ascending aorta during cardiac surgery to completely isolate the heart from systemic circulation. This allows surgeons to operate in a bloodless field while the patient is supported by cardiopulmonary bypass. Cross-clamp time is a critical metric, as prolonged aortic occlusion increases the risk of myocardial ischemia and post-operative complications despite cardioplegic protection.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as a compound modifier; record cross-clamp times in all cardiac surgical reports
In Context
- "The aortic cross-clamp time was 76 minutes for the triple valve procedure." — Surgical timing log
Also known as
aortic clamp
cross-clamp
Don't confuse with
side-biting clamp
partial occlusion clamp