[Techniques of Graft Harvesting for Coronary Revascularization]

In Japan, the vascular grafts employed in coronary artery bypass surgery comprised 69% internal thoracic artery, 35% great saphenous vein, 3% right gastroepiploic artery, and 3% radial artery. Graft harvesting for coronary artery bypass grafting is deemed the foundational skill to be mastered in cardiovascular surgery training and is frequently executed by novice surgeons. However, while redoing the anastomosis is relatively straightforward, repairing a damaged graft is exceedingly challenging. Specifically, if the internal thoracic artery is compromised and rendered unusable, it can adversely impact the patient's prognosis. We aspire that this article aids each of you in establishing a safe and reliable graft harvesting technique.