Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
cardioplegia
Pronunciation: kar-dee-oh-PLEE-jah
Deliberate cardiac arrest using specialized solution to protect the heart during surgery.
Full Definition
Cardioplegia refers to the intentional cessation of cardiac activity using a specialized crystalloid or blood-based solution containing high concentrations of potassium. This technique protects the myocardium during cardiac surgery by reducing metabolic demand and preventing ischemic injury. The cardioplegic solution is delivered through the coronary circulation while the heart is isolated on cardiopulmonary bypass.
In Context
- "Cold blood cardioplegia was administered every 20 minutes to maintain myocardial protection." — Operative note
Also known as
cardiac arrest solution
heart protection solution
Don't confuse with
cardioversion
cardioversion