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[An analysis of our experience using the bilateral arteria thoracica interna (ATI) in patients undergoing
The well established long-term patency of the internal thoracic artery (ITA) makes it a conduit of choice for coronary revascularization. Recent data suggest that patients with bilateral ITA grafts have a greater survival benefit and improved life-style quality, but it is worth noting that increased use of both ITA may have an adverse effect on morbidity and mortality. It is the purpose of this report to assay the first series of patients with bilateral ITAs, and analyze morbidity and mortality rates. In the period April 1992 through January 1994, ten patients undergo coronary revascularization using both ITAs, supplemented by saphenous grafts. In the series analyzed hospital mortality amounts to zero, and there is no perioperative myocardial infarction--neither respiratory deficiency, nor reoperations for bleeding. There is a single case of sternal infection--10 per cent. As shown by the early results, the use of bilateral ITA for coronary artery bypass grafting is a safe procedure, and does not increase operative mortality and morbidity.
The well established long-term patency of the internal thoracic artery (ITA) makes it a conduit of choice for coronary revascularization. Recent data suggest that patients with bilateral ITA grafts have a greater survival benefit and improved life-style quality, but it is worth noting that increased use of both ITA may have an adverse effect on morbidity and mortality. It is the purpose of this report to assay the first series of patients with bilateral ITAs, and analyze morbidity and mortality rates. In the period April 1992 through January 1994, ten patients undergo coronary revascularization using both ITAs, supplemented by saphenous grafts. In the series analyzed hospital mortality amounts to zero, and there is no perioperative myocardial infarction--neither respiratory deficiency, nor reoperations for bleeding. There is a single case of sternal infection--10 per cent. As shown by the early results, the use of bilateral ITA for coronary artery bypass grafting is a safe procedure, and does not increase operative mortality and morbidity.