Single Heartstring aortotomy for multiple off-pump venous bypass grafts

Abstract

Off-pump coronary bypass grafting may decrease the rate of stroke, due to minimal aortic manipulation. For venous grafts, clampless hemostasis when performing the proximal anastomosis can be achieved using the Heartstring device. We describe a technique using a single device to suture two veins to one aortotomy. This technique requires less space and could be advantageous in very short, small, and calcified aortas. In to our experience, this technique is rapid, simple, easy to reproduce, and cost-saving.