The Medtronic Octopus tissue stabilizer

Off-pump (“beating heart”) coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) requires immobilization of the coronary artery. A suction device (Octopus Tissue Stabilizer), attached to the epicardium and connected rigidly to the operating table rail, is used to immobilize the specific coronary artery. An OPCAB has proven to reduce side effects/complications in patients at risk for cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross clamping. Such as a reduced risk of stroke, lesser coagulopathy and blood transfusion requirement, a reduced length of intensive care and hospital stay and last but not least a reduced morbidity and mortality.