Deep pericardial sling versus lateral pericardial sutures in off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of deep pericardial sling (DPS) versus lateral pericardial sutures (LPSs) for heart stabilization and adequate coronary artery exposure during off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB).

Methods: One surgeon employed in 101 consecutive patients a series of four to six 2-0 polyglactin sutures placed laterally between the left phrenic nerve and the left pulmonary veins (LPS). Two other surgeons used in 104 consecutive patients a single 0-0 braided silk suture with moistened gauze placed in the oblique sinus of the posterior pericardium, between the inferior vena cava and the right lower pulmonary vein (DPS).