cardioplegia
Pronunciation: kar-dee-oh-PLEE-jah
A solution used to temporarily stop the heart during cardiac surgery to provide a motionless surgical field.
Full Definition
Cardioplegia is a specialized solution containing high concentrations of potassium that induces cardiac arrest during open-heart surgery, allowing surgeons to operate on a still heart. The solution may be delivered antegrade through the aortic root or retrograde through the coronary sinus. Modern cardioplegic solutions often include blood components and are delivered at specific temperatures (cold or warm) to provide myocardial protection during the period of ischemia. Proper cardioplegia administration is crucial for preventing cardiac damage during surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Often modified by temperature (cold/warm) or delivery method (antegrade/retrograde) in surgical reports.
In Context
- "Antegrade cardioplegia was administered through the aortic root to achieve cardiac arrest." — Operative note
- "The perfusionist prepared cold blood cardioplegia according to the surgeon's specifications." — Perfusion record