Sub epicardial dissecting hematoma with rupture — A rare complication of suction stabilizers

Abstract

Off-pump Coronary bypass surgery gained popularity and became routine in many centres. Introduction of suction type myocardial stabilizers made off-pump coronary surgery (OPCAB)safe. These stabilize myocardium locally but unusually produce a complication of extensive subepicardial hematoma with rupture. This can be managed with compressive obliteration of subepicardial space at the site of initial origin of hematoma with absorbable gelatin sponge and pericardium.