off-pump
Surgical technique performing coronary bypass without cardiopulmonary bypass on the beating heart.
Full Definition
Off-pump cardiac surgery, also known as beating-heart surgery, refers to performing coronary artery bypass grafting without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass while the heart continues to beat. This technique requires specialized stabilization devices to immobilize target vessels during anastomosis while maintaining cardiac output. Potential advantages include reduced inflammatory response, decreased bleeding, and lower risk of stroke compared to on-pump procedures. However, it requires advanced surgical expertise and is technically more challenging. Patient selection is important as not all cases are suitable for off-pump techniques.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate consistently; distinguish clearly from 'on-pump' procedures.
In Context
- "The patient underwent off-pump CABG with excellent hemodynamic stability." — operative report
- "Off-pump techniques may reduce perioperative complications in high-risk patients." — research abstract