Off-Pump vs. On-Pump CABG: Understanding Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

1. Off-pump CABG

Off-pump CABG, also known as "beating heart" surgery, is performed without the use of a heart-lung machine. The surgeon operates on the heart while it is still beating, using special instruments to stabilize the heart and keep it from moving too much.

2. On-pump CABG

On-pump CABG, also known as "traditional" CABG, is performed with the use of a heart-lung machine. The heart-lung machine takes over the function of the heart and lungs during the surgery, allowing the surgeon to operate on the heart in a still, bloodless field.