Basiskoronarchirurgie

Indications, procedural concepts and technical details of the coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) operation are continuously reassessed by cardiac surgeons and cardiologists. In particular, CABG in patients presenting with complex coronary artery disease is continuously challenged by interventional cardiology. However, considering current comparative studies, CABG remains the first line therapy for patients presenting with coronary three-vessel disease and/or left main stem stenosis. This is even more important for severely diseased coronary arteries or in complex lesions. However, cardiac surgeons now more than ever before need a profound knowledge of their own and the cardiologists’ work scope to be a strong partner in heart team discussions and a reliable guardian of the patient. The current educational paper aims at presenting important and well accepted aspects of coronary artery bypass surgery. Technical aspects as well as updated study results on early and late patient outcome will be discussed.