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Updated: Aug 1, 2026

Procedure for Human Saphenous Veins Ex Vivo Perfusion and External Reinforcement
Published on: October 1, 2014
Excimer laser for revascularisation of saphenous vein grafts
1Interventional Cardiology, Watson Clinic, Lakeland, Florida 33805, USA. DEbersole@pol.net
Insights
Coronary artery bypass grafting uses saphenous vein grafts, which can develop atherosclerosis. Excimer laser angioplasty shows promise in reducing complications like distal embolisation during percutaneous interventions in these grafts.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Interventional Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a cornerstone of cardiovascular medicine.
- Saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) used in CABG are susceptible to long-term atherosclerotic degeneration.
- Percutaneous interventions in SVGs carry risks, including distal embolisation and non-Q wave myocardial infarction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review percutaneous interventions in saphenous venous bypass grafts.
- To highlight the potential benefits of excimer laser angioplasty in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Review of percutaneous interventions performed on saphenous venous bypass grafts.
- Emphasis on the application and outcomes of excimer laser angioplasty.
Main Results:
- Percutaneous interventions in saphenous venous bypass grafts are associated with significant risks.
- Preliminary data suggest excimer laser angioplasty may mitigate the risk of distal embolisation and myocardial infarction.
Conclusions:
- Saphenous venous bypass grafts require careful management due to their propensity for disease.
- Excimer laser angioplasty presents a potentially safer alternative for percutaneous treatment of SVG disease.
Abstract:
Coronary artery bypass grafting has been a major advance in cardiovascular medicine over the past 30 years. Saphenous venous bypass grafts, however, are prone to develop atherosclerotic disease within several years of the procedure. Unfortunately, percutaneous interventional techniques in saphenous venous bypass grafts are associated with significant risks of distal embolisation and resultant non-Q wave myocardial infarction. Preliminary results suggest excimer laser angioplasty may significantly reduce this complication. This article summarises the results of percutaneous interventions in spahenous venous bypass grafts, emphasising the potential role of excimer laser angioplasty in this group of patients.
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