The MIDCAB experience: a current look at evolving surgical and anesthetic approaches

This article reviews and updates the recent modifications in patient selection and revisions in the anesthetic approach to MIDCAB surgery. It outlines the changing surgical selection criteria, current ways to assess graft patency, and evolving anesthetic management. A promising new advancement in coronary artery bypass, the minimally invasive technique has received varying reviews and undergoes careful evaluation. Increasing surgical experience, immediate postoperative assessment of graft patency, and improvement in surgical instruments are expected to improve patient outcome. A stratification of MIDCAB patients into status I and status II patients will aid in future evaluation of surgical and anesthetic outcome. Communication of newly developed techniques to those caring for cardiovascular patients is imperative.