Concomitant aortoaxillary bypass and coronary artery bypass grafting

The optimal revascularization strategy for patients with subclavian and coronary artery disease has not been established. This study assessed the mid-term clinical outcome of concomitant aortoaxillary bypass and coronary artery bypass grafting in 5 patients. A ring-reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene graft was attached to the ascending aorta and led to the proximal segment of the axillary artery via the pleural cavity. Patients were followed up for 2-10 years (mean, 5.4 +/- 3.4 years). Postoperative aortography and angiography demonstrated patent aortoaxillary and coronary bypass grafts in the short-term follow-up of all patients. Two patients with Takayasu aortitis needed re-operations for recurrent angina and annuloaortic dilatation. Another patient required removal of the aortoaxillary bypass graft because of infection, and subsequently underwent a left femoroaxillary bypass one year after the original procedure. Subclavian steal phenomenon did not occur. Aortoaxillary bypass with coronary artery bypass may be an effective option for patients with co-existing subclavian and coronary artery disease.