Coronary artery bypass grafting with gastroepiploic artery composite graft

BACKGROUND: To achieve better results after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), arterial conduits are the first choice in multiple CABG for younger patients. We present here the early results of CABG with gastroepiploic artery (GEA) composite graft with free radial artery (RA) to revascularize right coronary artery or left circumflex artery in addition to internal thoracic artery to left anterior descending artery. METHODS: Between July 1997 and June 1998, 13 patients received CABG with GEA (larger caliber than 2.0 mm) composite graft. We have assessed the early results. RESULTS: There was no postoperative death or major morbidity. Postoperative angiogram was performed in 11 patients and all conduits were patent. Postoperative exercise stress test was done in 13 cases and showed no ischemia. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple CABG with arterial conduit can be performed by this procedure. The free RA functioned from secondary branches derived from proximal GEA. In conclusion, this procedure seems to be safe and effective, and both long-term patency and better quality of life may be expected.