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Radial artery graft for coronary revascularization: technical considerations
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA 17822-1343, USA.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|July 1, 1995
Summary
The radial artery is a safe and effective alternative conduit for coronary artery bypass grafting. This study found no significant complications related to radial artery graft failure, suggesting its suitability for myocardial revascularization.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Vascular Grafting
Background:
- The use of the radial artery for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains a subject of debate.
- Concerns exist regarding potential complications and graft patency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the radial artery as a conduit for coronary revascularization.
- To assess complications and long-term outcomes associated with radial artery grafts.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 165 patients undergoing coronary revascularization between November 1992 and December 1994 received radial artery grafts.
- Preventive measures against spasm included not skeletonizing the artery and routine administration of calcium-channel blockers.
Main Results:
- No hand complications occurred post-harvesting. A single perioperative myocardial infarction (0.6%) was noted in a revascularized area. Overall mortality was 3.0% with no graft-related deaths.
- Angina recurrence was observed in 3.0% of patients, all with patent grafts. Radionuclide studies at 1 year showed stress defects in only 2.4% of radial artery grafted areas.
Conclusions:
- Radial artery graft failure was not typically associated with perioperative myocardial infarction, mortality, or recurrent angina.
- The radial artery is a viable and safe alternative conduit for myocardial revascularization, particularly when saphenous veins are compromised.