These complications, which can affect the lives of patients and their families have led surgeons to look for different options. One of the best options is the a technique called the Off-Pump Coronary Bypass Graft Surgery (OPCAB)

 

Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (OPCAB) Surgery

OPCAB is also famously known as Beating Heart Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

 

This is a technique whereby the CABG is done in the usual manner, but without connecting the patient to the heart-lung machine and not stopping the heart (thus called off-pump). Parts of the heart where the necessary sewing takes place are stabilized using a specially designed apparatus called stabilizer.

This manoeuvre allows the sewing of blood vessels to be done safely and accurately without having to stop the heart. Indeed, it is as if the patient is undergoing any other major operation where the circulation continues in the physiological manner and not artificially as with the use of the heart-lung machine.

 

 

 

The Advantages Of OPCAB Include:

 

Earlier recovery -shorter stay in the hospital and may be able to return to normal activities.

Lower risk of complications- associated with the heart-lung machine such as stroke, lung and kidney problems.

Less bleeding- requires fewer blood transfusions.

Less brain complications- less problems with mental clarity and memory.