Apparatus and method for cardiac stabilization and arterial occlusion

An apparatus and method of use is provided for locally stabilizing an anastomotic site during a beating heart surgical procedure which includes occluding a section of the artery receiving the bypass graft vessel. An apparatus is provided to stabilize the epicardium and the operational field, and includes a platform that can be compressed onto the epicardium or tensioned by pulling the epicardium upwardly, thereby providing a stabilized operational field. At least one occluding member provides means to occlude the section of artery receiving the bypass graft vessel. An adjustable stabilizing arm can be used in conjunction with the platform to further provide stability to the epicardium during the beating heart bypass graft procedure.