A simple method for heart stabilization during off-pump multi-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting: surgical...

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery regroups several technical options including small incision, video-assisted surgery and beating heart surgery but mechanical stabilization for off-pump multi-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), remains a problem. We developed a simple method of stabilization with a fenestrated polytetrafluroethylene patch. Four sutures were passed deeply into the myocardium surrounding the anastomotic site. The sutures were then passed through the patch. Gentle traction on tied sutures, allowed immobilization and exposure in the selected area. This method which was carried in 95 patients, provides good stabilization for performing off-pump multi-vessel CABG in all cardiac territories.