Tramatic Brain Injury following Bypass Surgery

During recent triple bypass surgery (approx. 3 weeks ago)TBI (Tramatic Brain Injury) occured at some point during the surgery.  My question is what possibly could have happened during this procedure to deplete the oxygen flow to the brain for such a period of time to cause injury.  The patient is 59 years old, has moderate arthritis, some alcohol use (3-4 beers daily)  but otherwise healthy.   The only diagnosis we have been able to get is Encephalopathy which tells us absolutely nothing.  Please let us know what information and/or resouces you can provide.  Thank you for your help.

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Diane,

During Bypass procedures, the blood to the heart is diverted via cardiopulmonary bypass such that a machine maintains blood pressure while the heart is stopped.  No matter how well this is performed there is always the chance of reduced blood flow to the brain.

You should discuss this further with the surgeons performing this case for a more detailed specific description in this patients case.

[am101184]

A related discussion, brain injury after double bypass surgery was started.