Professional
Technical
IVT
deep hypothermic circulatory arrest
Technique using extreme cooling to safely stop circulation during complex surgery.
Full Definition
Deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) is a specialized technique where the patient's body temperature is reduced to 18-20°C, allowing complete cessation of cardiopulmonary bypass and drainage of blood from the body. This provides a bloodless operative field for complex procedures involving the aortic arch or cerebral vessels. DHCA offers neuroprotection through reduced metabolic demand but requires careful temperature management and gradual rewarming to prevent complications.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify arrest time in documentation; distinguish from selective cerebral perfusion techniques
In Context
- "Deep hypothermic circulatory arrest was employed for 28 minutes during the hemiarch replacement." — Surgical technique description
Also known as
DHCA
hypothermic arrest
Contrasted with
normothermic perfusion
Don't confuse with
mild hypothermia
selective cerebral perfusion