Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting is increasingly performed. Because these procedures are associated with temporary myocardial ischemia, there is a risk of ischemia-related complications. We report two cases of myocardial stunning after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting using the Octopus tissue stabilizer. On the basis of our experiences, means to prevent stunning are discussed. (Ann Thorac Surg 2001;71:352-5) (C) 2001 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.