cannula malposition
Pronunciation: KAN-yuh-lah mal-puh-ZISH-un
Incorrect placement of cardiopulmonary bypass cannulae that can compromise perfusion or cause vascular injury during cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
Cannula malposition refers to the incorrect placement or displacement of arterial or venous cannulae used in cardiopulmonary bypass circuits, which can result in inadequate organ perfusion, vascular injury, or hemodynamic instability. Common forms include arterial cannula placement in the aortic arch rather than ascending aorta (risking cerebral malperfusion), venous cannula migration causing poor venous drainage, or cannula tip placement against vessel walls creating obstruction. This complication requires immediate recognition and correction to prevent organ damage, particularly cerebral or coronary ischemia. Detection methods include direct visualization, pressure monitoring, arterial blood gas analysis, and near-infrared spectroscopy for cerebral perfusion assessment. Medical editors should note that cannula malposition represents a preventable complication requiring precise documentation of anatomical placement and corrective actions taken.
Usage
Usage note: Specify anatomical location and type of malposition; document corrective measures and timing of recognition.
In Context
- "Arterial cannula malposition was suspected when cerebral oximetry showed bilateral desaturation during bypass initiation." — intraoperative note
- "The venous cannula required repositioning due to malposition causing inadequate venous drainage and poor perfusion." — technical complication report