Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Surgical Porcine Model of Chronic Myocardial Ischemia Treated by Exosome-laden Collagen Patch and Off-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
Published on: September 15, 2023
Pleural opening impairs respiratory system compliance and resistance in off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting
K C Tavolaro1, S Guizilini, D W Bolzan
1Cardiovascular Surgery Discipline, Federal University of São Paulo, San Paolo, Brazil. kellytavolaro@bol.com.br
Aim:
This study evaluated the effect of pleurotomy on respiratory system compliance and resistance in off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) using the left internal thoracic artery (LITA).
Methods:
Thirty-two patients were prospectively allocated into two groups: OP group (n = 16 patients with open left pleural cavity); IP group (N.=16 patients with intact pleural cavity). Static and dynamic lung compliance and total respiratory system resistance calculation were recorded at anesthesia induction (before chest opening) and immediately after chest closure.
Results:
Static lung compliance values significantly decreased after chest closure in both groups (P < 0.0001), but the OP group had a significantly greater decline (P = 0.0007). Dynamic lung compliance decreased in either groups after chest closure (P < 0.0001), however, no significant difference was found between groups (P = 0.228). Total respiratory system resistance increased in both groups (P < 0.05), however the OP group had a higher increase (P = 0.0005). Orotracheal intubation time (P = 0.041) and hospital stay (P = 0.0004) were higher in the OP group.
Conclusion:
Pleura opening and need of chest tube insertion induced significant reduction in static lung compliance and increase in total respiratory system resistance, furthermore contributing to impair pulmonary dysfunction in the early postoperative period after OPCAB.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax II: Pathophysiology
Atelectasis II: Pathophysiology
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Pneumothorax-I
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Pressure Relationships in Thoracic Cavity
Breathing Mechanisms
Both intra-alveolar and intrapleural pressures rely on specific lung properties. The ability to breathe—allowing air to enter the lungs during...

