Left Internal Mammary Artery Harvesting Research Articles

Osteophyte of the first costochondral joint is a reliable landmark to facilitate standardized robotic left internal mammary artery harvesting

Osteophyte of the first costochondral joint is a reliable landmark to facilitate standardized robotic left internal mammary artery harvesting

Unlocking vascular vitality: Exploring the impact of LIMA harvesting technique on endothelial health

BackgroundThis study investigates the impact of different harvesting techniques on the morphology and endothelial function of the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) grafts in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). MethodsFifty-three patients undergoing elective CABG were randomly assigned to two groups based on the harvesting technique: traditional clipping and nonclipping. Histological analyses revealed that arteries in the nonclipped group exhibited greater dilation and preserved endothelial integrity compared to the control group. ResultsThe nonclipped group exhibited greater arterial dilation and preserved endothelial integrity compared to the clipped group. Immunostaining for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) showed significantly higher expression in the nonclipped group, conversly COX-2 staining showed fewer expression in the nonclipped group indicating better endothelial function preservation. ConclusionThese findings suggest that maintaining perfusion during LIMA harvesting may improve endothelial function and potentially enhance graft patency in the long term. Further research is warranted to validate these results and optimize harvesting techniques for CABG procedures.

Diaphragmatic elevations following cardiac surgery.

This study aims to investigate the incidence, prognosis, and etiology of diaphragmatic elevation following cardiac surgery. Between February 2019 and December 2019, a total of 888 patients (631 males, 257 females; mean age: 58.4±12.1 years; range, 19 to 84 years) who underwent cardiac surgery were retrospectively analyzed. A series of chest X-rays taken before and after surgery were analyzed to detect diaphragmatic elevation. The patients were divided into two groups: those without diaphragmatic elevation (Group 1, n=789) and those with diaphragmatic elevation (Group 2, n=99). Diaphragmatic elevation occurred in 11.14% of patients. Of these patients, 85% recovered within a year. Patients with concomitant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and diaphragmatic elevation exhibited prolonged mechanical ventilation compared to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients without elevation. The incidence of diaphragmatic elevation was higher in coronary artery bypass grafting patients compared to others (p<0.001). A secondary analysis utilizing propensity score matching revealed topical cold slush as an independent risk factor for diaphragmatic elevation. Incidence and hospitalization duration were higher among patients exposed to topical cold slush (p=0.011 and p=0.002, respectively). Left internal mammary artery harvesting and diabetes mellitus were associated with increased incidence of diaphragmatic elevation. Diaphragmatic elevation is frequent following cardiac surgery, particularly in coronary artery bypass grafting patients with diabetes mellitus. Among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, diaphragmatic elevation can lead to unfavorable clinical outcomes. Minimizing the use of topical cold slush and considering beating heart surgery may be prudent in high-risk groups to reduce diaphragmatic elevation incidence.

Comparison of Intercostal and Subxiphoid Left Pleural Drain After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), a prevalent surgery for coronary artery disease, often involves left internal mammary artery harvesting, necessitating left pleural drain insertion. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and respiratory issues. This analysis compares outcomes between subxiphoid and intercostal left pleural drain insertion. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, this systematic review and meta-analysis involved searches in MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Scopus, Google Scholar, and Clinical Trial Registry. Studies were selected based on primary outcomes (postoperative ventilator support duration and pain score) and secondary outcomes (percentage predicted vital capacity (VC), forced VC (FVC), and partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) in arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis). Statistical analysis used a random effect model, pooled risk ratio, and I2 heterogeneity. Nine studies (seven randomized and two nonrandomized) with 412 patients met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis indicated reduced ventilation time and postoperative pain with the subxiphoid drain compared to the intercostal drain. Spirometry parameters showed improved VC, FVC, and PO2 in ABG analysis. This meta-analysis suggests that subxiphoid pleural drain insertion in CABG patients is associated with shorter ventilation times, lower pain scores, and improved pulmonary function compared to intercostal drain placement.

How to harvest the left internal mammary artery-a randomized controlled trial.

It is uncertain whether Thunderbeat has a place in harvesting the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) and whether skeletonization is superior to pedicle-harvested LIMA. Some investigations have shown improved flowrates in the skeletonized graft. The aim of this study was to compare 3 groups of harvesting techniques: Pedicled, surgical skeletonized and skeletonized with Thunderbeat in terms of flow rates in the LIMA and postoperative in-hospital outcomes. Patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting with the LIMA to the anterior descending artery were randomized to pedicled (n = 56), surgical skeletonized (n = 55) and skeletonized with Thunderbeat (n = 54). Main outcomes were blood flow and pulsatility index in the graft. No statistical difference between groups regarding flow in LIMA or pulsatility index. Similarly, no difference in postoperative bleeding or days of hospitalization. The duration of harvesting was faster for the pedicled technique compared with surgical skeletonized and skeletonized with Thunderbeat [mean total min: pedicled 20.2 min standard deviation (SD) ± 5.4; surgical skeletonized 28.6 min SD ± 8.7; skeletonized with Thunderbeat 28.3 min SD ± 9.11, P < 0.001]. No grafts discarded due to faulty harvesting and there was no graft failure within hospital stay. We found no difference between the harvesting methods except for a significantly faster harvesting time with the pedicled technique. However, non-touch skeletonized LIMA harvesting with Thunderbeat seems to be an effective alternative to traditional surgical skeletonized LIMA. The future will reveal whether patency is harvesting dependent. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05562908.

Prospective Randomized Pilot Trial on the Effects of Mild Hypercapnia on Cerebral Oxygen Saturation in Patients Undergoing Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

A single-center prospective randomized controlled study was conducted to assess the effect of targeted mild hypercapnia (TMH) on cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). A prospective randomized controlled study involving 100 patients undergoing off-pump CABG at U. N. Mehta Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Patients were randomized to either the TMH (PaCO2 45-55 mmHg) or the targeted normocapnia (TN; PaCO2 35-45 mmHg) group, containing 50 patients in each group. Monitoring of rSO2, heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), PaCO2, and peripheral oxygen saturation was done at baseline, after induction, after left internal mammary artery harvesting, at each grafting (distal and proximal), after protamine, and after shifting to the intensive care unit. The standardized minimental-state examination (SMMSE) was performed preoperatively and at 8, 12, and 24 hours postextubation. Data were analyzed using an independent sample t test. The TMH group had higher MAP during grafting (p < 0.001) and higher rSO2 on both sides during distal and proximal grafting (p < 0.001) and after protamine (p < 0.05), as compared to the TN group. Compared to preoperative values, SMMSE scores in the TN group were significantly lower at 12 and 24 hours postextubation (p < 0.001). TMH during grafting increased the cerebral blood flow and rSO2 when hemodynamic instability was very common. It has a protective role on the brain and helps maintain cognition postoperatively.

Comparison of Robot-Assisted Multivessel Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass and Hybrid Revascularization

BackgroundThis study compares 2 minimally invasive coronary revascularization approaches: robot-assisted multivessel minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) and the hybrid approach combining MIDCAB with subsequent percutaneous coronary intervention. MethodsA retrospective review was conducted on cases of robotic MIDCAB performed at our institution between 2012 and 2022. Two groups of patients were analyzed: the surgery group (undergoing robotic multivessel MIDCAB) and the hybrid group. Surgical procedures included robotic left internal mammary artery harvest and anastomosis, with percutaneous coronary intervention performed within 30 days in the hybrid group. ResultsThere were 105 patients in the surgery group and 81 patients in the hybrid group. Both groups had similar characteristics, except that the surgery group had older patients. There were no mortalities in either group. Postoperative atrial fibrillation rates were higher in the surgery group. Length of stay and other postoperative complications did not differ significantly between the groups. ConclusionsMultivessel robotic MIDCAB can be safely performed with comparable outcomes to the hybrid approach. The hybrid technique, being less demanding, is the preferred in most centers. However, multivessel robotic MIDCAB offers the advantage of complete revascularization and potentially more durable results. Patients with complex non–left anterior descending lesions may not be suitable for the hybrid approach.

Learning Curve of Thoracoscopic Nonrobotic Harvest of the Left Internal Mammary Artery in Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

Harvest of the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) is a technically demanding element of minimally invasive coronary surgery. We aimed to evaluate the learning curve of thoracoscopic, nonrobotic LIMA harvest during endoscopic coronary artery bypass (Endo-CAB) surgery. Eighty patients undergoing Endo-CAB surgery were included. LIMA harvest was performed using commonly available video-assisted thoracoscopic instruments. Time from incision until heparin administration was defined as total LIMA harvest time (this includes opening of the pericardium and identification of coronary targets). LIMA harvest times (N = 80) and total procedure times for single-vessel grafting (n = 51) were analyzed. The mean LIMA harvest time was 58 ± 19 min, ranging from 15 to 113 min. The mean procedure time was 150 ± 39 min. Significant reductions in both LIMA harvest and total Endo-CAB procedure times were observed with increasing experience (logarithmic regression Y = 109 - 14.9*log(x), P < 0.001; Y = 227 - 24.4*log(x), P < 0.001, respectively). No damage to the LIMA occurred during thoracoscopic harvesting. Total thoracoscopic (nonrobotic) LIMA harvest is an efficient technique with a steep learning curve using routine instruments. More patients might benefit from minimally invasive coronary surgery using thoracoscopic LIMA harvest techniques.

Mastering the Learning Curve for Robotic-Assisted Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

BackgroundPrevious studies have evaluated the learning curve to achieve competency in robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) but have not identified thresholds for mastery. Robotic-assisted CABG is a minimally invasive alternative to sternotomy CABG. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of this procedure and to estimate the threshold for achieving mastery. MethodsFrom 2009 to 2020, 1000 robotic-assisted CABG procedures were performed at a single institution. Robotic left internal mammary artery (LIMA) harvest followed by off-pump, LIMA–left anterior descending artery grafting using a 4-cm thoracotomy was performed. Short-term outcomes were obtained from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons database, and long-term follow-up was obtained by telephone questionnaires from dedicated research nurses for all patients more than 1 year from surgery. ResultsMean patient age was 64 ± 11 years, Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality was 1.1% ± 1.5%, and 76% (758) of patients were men. Thirty-day mortality occurred in 6 patients (0.6%; observed-to-expected ratio, 0.53), 5 patients (0.5%) experienced a postoperative stroke, and postoperative LIMA patency was 97.2% (491/505). Mean procedure time decreased from 195 minutes to 176 minutes, and conversion to sternotomy decreased from 4.4% (22/500) to 1.6% (8/500) after 500 cases. Short-term outcomes suggested expertise was reached between 250 and 500 cases. Long-term follow-up was completed in 97% of patients (873/896) with a median follow-up of 3.9 years (interquartile range, 1.8-5.8), and the overall survival rate was 89% (777). ConclusionsRobotic-assisted CABG can be performed safely with excellent results even during a surgeon’s early experience. However the learning curve to achieve mastery is longer than required to achieve competency, with a threshold of approximately 250 to 500 cases.

Comparison of Sternal Wound Complication after Off-Pump CABG between Skeletonized and Pedicled LIMA Harvesting: A Single Centre Experience in Bangladesh

Background: Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) is a surgical procedure that has gained popularity due to its potential benefits over traditional coronary artery bypass grafting, including reduced morbidity and mortality. However, sternal wound complication (SWC) remains challenging following the procedure. The technique of left internal mammary artery (LIMA) harvesting has been shown to impact the incidence of SWC. This study aimed to compare the incidence of SWC between two techniques of LIMA harvesting, i.e., skeletonized and pedicled. Methods: The study was conducted at the Department of Cardiac Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, and included 60 patients who underwent OPCAB. The patients were divided into two groups of 30 each based on the technique of LIMA harvesting used, i.e., skeletonized (group A) or pedicled (group B). The postoperative ICU care was given to each patient as per the protocol. The statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS version 26.0 for Windows software. Results: The results showed that 5 (8.33%) patients developed SWC, with 1 (1.67%) patient in group A and 4 (6.66%) patients in group B. However, the occurrence of SWC was not statistically significant between the two groups (p = 0.35). The mean age, gender distribution, and comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and anemia were also not statistically significant between the two groups. The number of smokers was statistically significant between the two groups (p = 0.03), and the occurrence of SWC was found to be higher in smoker patients in group B (p = 0.04). Preoperative and postoperative parameters such as duration of operation, duration of mechanical ventilation, duration of chest drains, duration of the central venous line, and amount of postoperative mediastinal bleeding were also not statistically significant between the two groups. The distribution of wound complications, duration of ICU stays, and hospital stay between the two groups was also not statistically significant. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study found that the incidence of SWC was less in skeletonized LIMA harvesting than in pedicled LIMA harvesting after OPCAB. However, this finding was not statistically significant. Further studies with larger sample sizes may be needed to confirm these results and determine the appropriate technique of LIMA harvesting to decrease the incidence of SWC after OPCAB.

Surgeon-Guided Robotic Arm Facilitates LIMA Takedown in MIDCAB Surgery.

Left internal mammary artery (LIMA) to left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery bypass has been scientifically proven to have the best patency and long-term results in myocardial revascularization. The latest guidelines suggest minimally invasive LIMA to LAD is the optimal therapy for isolated proximal LAD lesions. The start of a minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) program can be quite challenging as robotic surgery demands high starting costs, while normal thoracoscopic techniques have a longer surgeon learning curve. In this article, we describe to the best of our knowledge the first use of surgeon-guided wristed instruments in LIMA harvesting for MIDCAB surgery. It allows for a facilitated LIMA harvest like in robotic surgery with the comfort of a surgeon constantly standing by the patient, allowing for a faster response time in case of an emergency or the need for instrument exchange. These features result in shorter operating times, lower costs compared with robotic surgery, and faster adoption of this technique for centers just starting MIDCAB surgery.

Minimally invasive left internal mammary artery harvesting techniques during the learning curve are safe and achieve similar results as conventional LIMA harvesting techniques

BackgroundInternal thoracic arteries (ITAs) are considered to be the standard conduits used for coronary revascularization. Recently minimally invasive procedures are performed to harvest ITAs. The aim of this retrospective cohort study is to observe the effect and safety of less invasive LIMA harvesting approaches in the learning curve compared to conventional harvesting.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the data of 138 patients divided into three different groups based on the LIMA harvesting techniques: conventional sternotomy LIMA harvesting, CSLH (n: 64), minimally invasive direct LIMA harvesting, MIDLH (n: 42), and robotic-assisted LIMA harvesting, RALH (n: 32). The same 138 patients were also divided into sternotomy (n: 64), and non-sternotomy (n: 74) groups keeping both MIDLH and RALH in the non-sternotomy category. Parameters associated with LIMA’s quality and some other perioperative parameters such as harvesting time, LIMA damage, perioperative myocardial infarction, ventilation time, 24 h drainage, ICU stay, hospital mortality, computed tomographic angiography (CTA) LIMA patency on discharge, and after one year were recorded.ResultsThe mean LIMA harvesting time was 36.9 ± 14.3, 74.4 ± 24.2, and 164.7 ± 51.9 min for CSLH, MIDLH, and RALH groups respectively (p < 0.001). One patient 1/32 (3.1%) in the RALH group had LIMA damage while the other two groups had none. One-month LIMA CTA patency was 56/57 (98.2%), 34/36 (94.4%), and 27/27 (100%) (p = 0.339), while 1 year CTA patency was 47/51 (92.1%), 30/33 (90.9%), and 24/25 (96%) for CSLH, MIDLH, and RALH groups respectively (p = 0.754). In the case of sternotomy vs non-sternotomy, the LIMA harvesting time was 36.9 ± 14.3 and 113.6 ± 59.3 min (p < 0.001). CTA patency on discharge was 56/57 (98.2%) and 61/63 (96.8%) (p = 0.619), while 1 year CTA patency was 47/51 (92.1%) and 54/58 (93.1%) (p = 0.850) for sternotomy vs non-sternotomy groups.ConclusionMinimally invasive left internal mammary artery harvesting techniques during the learning curve are safe and have no negative impact on the quality of LIMA. Perioperative outcomes are comparable to conventional procedures except for prolonged harvesting time. RALH is the least invasive and most time-consuming procedure during the learning curve. These procedures are safe and can be performed for selected patients even during the learning curve.

Unilateral left-sided thoracoscopic ablation of atrial fibrillation concomitant to minimally invasive bypass grafting of the left anterior descending artery.

OBJECTIVESThoracoscopic ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) and minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) with robot-assisted left internal mammary artery (LIMA) harvesting may represent a safe and effective alternative to more invasive surgical approaches via sternotomy. The aim of our study was to describe the feasibility, safety and efficacy of a unilateral left-sided thoracoscopic AF ablation and concomitant MIDCAB surgery.METHODSRetrospective analysis of a prospectively gathered cohort was performed of all consecutive patients with AF and at least a critical left anterior descending artery (LAD) stenosis that underwent unilateral left-sided thoracoscopic AF ablation and concomitant off-pump MIDCAB surgery in the Maastricht University Medical Centre between 2017 and 2021.RESULTSTwenty-three patients were included [age 69 years (standard deviation = 8), paroxysmal AF 61%, left atrial volume index 42 ml/m2 (standard deviation = 11)]. Unilateral left-sided thoracoscopic isolation of the left (n = 23) and right (n = 22) pulmonary veins and box (n = 21) by radiofrequency ablation was succeeded by epicardial validation of exit- and entrance block (n = 22). All patients received robot-assisted LIMA harvesting and off-pump LIMA-LAD anastomosis through a left mini-thoracotomy. The perioperative complications consisted of one bleeding of the thoracotomy wound and one aborted myocardial infarction not requiring intervention. The mean duration of hospital stay was 6 days (standard deviation = 2). After discharge, cardiac hospital readmission occurred in 4 patients (AF n = 1; pleural- and pericardial effusion n = 2, myocardial infarction requiring the percutaneous intervention of the LIMA-LAD n = 1) within 1 year. After 12 months, 17/21 (81%) patients were in sinus rhythm when allowing anti-arrhythmic drugs. Finally, the left atrial ejection fraction improved postoperatively [26% (standard deviation = 11) to 38% (standard deviation = 7), P = 0.01].CONCLUSIONSIn this initial feasibility and early safety study, unilateral left-sided thoracoscopic AF ablation and concomitant MIDCAB for LIMA-LAD grafting is a feasible, safe and efficacious for patients with AF and a critical LAD stenosis.

Minimally invasive atrial fibrillation ablation and left anterior descending bypass grafting

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) with robotic left internal mammary artery (LIMA) harvesting for a critical left anterior descending (LAD) stenosis and thoracoscopic ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) may represent safe and effective alternatives to more invasive surgical approaches via sternotomy. Purpose To evaluate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of a MIDCAB procedure with concomitant thoracoscopic AF ablation. Methods We prospectively analysed all patients who underwent a minimally invasive, off-pump, MIDCAB through a left mini-thoracotomy with concomitant left-sided thoracoscopic AF ablation using a bipolar radio frequent clamp between 2017 and 2021. Results Twenty-three patients were included (age 69±8 years, BMI 29±4kg/m2, paroxysmal AF 61%, LAVI 42±11 ml/m2). All patients received an off-pump LIMA-LAD anastomosis. Ablation of the left (n=23) and right (n=22) pulmonary veins and box (n=21) was succeeded by epicardial validation of exit- and entrance block (n=22). No procedural complications were observed and complications during hospital admission and after discharge were: bleeding of the LIMA-LAD anastomosis n=1; myocardial infarction requiring percutaneous intervention of the LIMA-LAD n=1, respiratory insufficiency due to pleural effusion or atelectasis n=3, hospital readmission due to pleural- and pericardial effusion n=2. Duration of hospital stay was 6±2 days. After 12 months, 16/20 (80%) patients were in sinus rhythm when allowing anti-arrhythmic drugs and 18/20 (90%) patients were free from myocardial infarction. Conclusion Robot-assisted MIDCAB surgery for LIMA-LAD grafting concomitant with left-sided thoracoscopic AF ablation is a feasible, safe and efficacious minimally invasive treatment strategy for patients with a critical LAD stenosis and AF suitable for minimally invasive surgery.

Minimal invasive coronary surgery is not associated with increased mortality or morbidity during the period of learning curve

Background Minimally invasive procedures for coronary revascularization have been performed for over 20 years; however, their technical complexity, steep learning curves and absence of training programs explain the weak acceptance of these techniques. The aim of this study is to describe the step-by-step learning process on how to establish a minimally invasive coronary artery revascularization program. The short-term outcomes of our first 30 patients were compared to our left internal mammary artery (LIMA) to left anterior descending (LAD) artery off pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) cohort as a quality control baseline. Methods All patients who benefited from an endoscopic atraumatic coronary artery bypass (Endo-ACAB) in our hospital, from July 2018 to May 2020 (n = 30) were identified. Baseline demographics, peri, postoperative and laboratory data were extracted from each patient’s medical records. These results were compared to our LIMA-LAD OPCAB cohort (n = 23). Results Twenty-eight patients were planned for a single LIMA-LAD Endo-ACAB. The remaining two had a T-graft double Endo-ACAB. Ten patients had a hybrid revascularization with the culprit lesion being treated first. Three patients were converted to sternotomy because of a LIMA lesion during thoracoscopic harvesting. We accounted three major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Demographic, peri and postoperative data showed no significant differences between the Endo-ACAB and the OPCAB group. Conclusion Endo-ACAB is a technically demanding operation, however, it can safely be introduced in centers with no previous experience with no extra cost in terms of morbidity or mortality. Thoracoscopic LIMA harvesting is the most demanding surgical skill to acquire.

“Pleurotomy during CABG on the Clinical Outcome Following Left Internal Mammary Artery (LIMA) Harvesting”

Background: The internal mammary artery (IMA) is the graft of choice for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) due to superior patency and enhanced patient survival. Pleurotomy during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may cause post-operative events, mostly pulmonary complications. Objective: To assess the impact of intact pleura during left internal mammary artery harvesting on clinical outcome. Materials and Methods: This Cross sectional observational study was carried out in the Department of Cardiac Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2019 to December 2019.101 patients who underwent Department of Cardiac Surgery, BSMMU were enrolled in this study and divided into two groups: group A (n = 48, 36 male and 12 female patients at a mean age of 56.5 ± 11.2 years) underwent routine CABG and pleurotomy and group B (n = 53, 45 male and 8 female patients at a mean age of 55.4 ± 10.3 years) had CABG with intact pleura. The patients were compared regarding their demographic data, surgical data, and postoperative events. Results: The Incidence Of Postoperative Pericardial Effusion Was Similar Between The Groups, But The Incidence Of Postoperative Pulmonary Complications Such As Pleural Effusion (Except For Mild Pleural Effusion) On The Second (No: 10.4%, mild: 41.7%, moderate: 45.8% and severe: 2.1% in group A versus no: 42.6%, mild: 44.4%, moderate: 13%, and severe: 0 in group B) and fifth postoperative days (no: 27.1%, mild: 33.3%, moderate: 35.4%, and severe: 4.2% in group A versus no: 42.6%, mild: 44.4%, moderate: 13%, and severe: 0 in group B) was significantly lower in group B (p value &lt; 0.001 and p value = 0.007, respectively). Also, the incidence of atelectasis (except for mild atelectasis) on the second (no: 2.1%, mild: 22.9%, moderate: 72.9%, and severe: 2.1% in group A versus no: 9.2%, mild: 59.3%, moderate: 31.5%, and severe: 0 in group B) and fifth postoperative days (no: 22.9%, mild: 39.6%, moderate: 35.4%, and severe: 2.1% in group A versus no: 39.6%, mild: 49.1%, moderate: 11.3%, and severe: 0 in group B) was significantly higher in group A (p value &lt; 0.001 and p value = 0.004, respectively). Postoperative partial oxygen pressure and O2 saturation were similar between the groups, but partial carbon dioxide pressure was significantly lower in group A (p value = 0.017). Amount of bleeding (p value = 0.008) and duration of hospitalization (p value = 0.002) were significantly higher in group A than those in group B. Conclusion: Our results indicate that keeping the pleura intact has beneficial effects on the respiratory function, without increasing the incidence of postoperative pericardial effusion.

Whatever happens, two mammary is better than one

It is well known that the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) should be the first conduit of choice. Similarly, especially in patients younger than 70 years, other conduits should be search among arterial grafts, such as right internal mammary artery (RIMA) or radial artery (RA). If the RA can be harvested in the meanwhile of LIMA harvesting without time consuming, it is well established that former one has to be grafted only on presence of a good run-off. One of the main criticisms moved to the use of RIMA are linked to technical difficulties in its harvesting it.

Changes in intraocular pressure during coronary artery bypass graft surgery: an observational study

BackgroundIn this study, the effects of pulsatile and non-pulsatile on-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgery (CABG) and off-pump CABG techniques on the intraocular pressure were investigated. MethodsForty-five patients who planned to elective coronary artery bypass surgery with on-pump pulsatile (n=15), non-pulsatile (n=15), or off-pump (n=15) were included. Intraocular Pressure (IOP) measurements were performed on both eyes at nine time-points: 1) Before the operation, 2) After anesthesia induction, 3) 3 minutes after heparin administration Left Internal Mammary Artery (LIMA) harvesting, 4) End of the first anastomosis, 5) End of LIMA anastomosis, 6) 3 minutes after protamine administration, 7) End of the operation, and 8) Second hour in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 9) Fifth hour in ICU. Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) and Central Venous Pressure (CVP) were also recorded at the same time points as IOP. ResultsIn Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB) groups (pulsatile or non-pulsatile CPB) with the beginning of CPB, there were significant decreases in IOP values when compared to baseline (p=0.012). This decrease was more prominent in the non-pulsatile group when compared to the pulsatile group (T4 IOP values: pulsatile, 9.7±2.6; non-pulsatile, 6.8±1.9; p=0.002; T5 IOP values: pulsatile, 9.5±1.9; non-pulsatile, 6.7±2.1; p=0.004). At the end of the surgery (T7), IOP values returned to the baseline and stayed stable at the remaining time-points. In-off pump group, IOP values significantly increased with a head-down position (T4 IOP values: off-pump surgery, 19.7±5.2; p=0.015). IOP values remained high until the normalization of head-down position (T6) and stayed stable through the rest of all remaining time-points. ConclusionDuring cardiac surgery regardless of the technique (on-pump CABG, off-pump CABG), intraocular pressures remain in the normal ranges. It should be kept in mind that patients should be avoided from long and extreme Trendelenburg position, low CVP, and MAP levels during cardiac surgery to prevent eye-related complications.

LIMA Serbestleştirilmesi İçin Papaverinin Ultrason Kılavuzluğunda Transvers Torasik Kas Düzlemine Enjeksiyonu ile Topikal Uygulamasının Karşılaştırılması: Bir Pilot Çalışma

INTRODUCTION: Although the effect of topical papaverine on the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) flow is a well-known method, papaverine hydro dissection is applied to the transverse thoracic muscle plane is unknown. This study aims to investigate the effect of ultrasound-guided transverse thoracic muscle plane papaverine injection on LIMA flow. METHODS: ASA II-III, 40 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting surgery, were randomly divided into two groups. Group topical papaverine (Group TP, n=20) and Group ultrasound-guided papaverine (Group USP, n=20). In Group TP, 10 mg papaverine in 10 mL saline was administered topically after LIMA harvesting. In Group USP, ultrasound-guided transverse thoracic muscle plane papaverine injection with the same solution preoperatively. Trans-time flow measurements (TTFM), LIMA harvesting time, and surgeon satisfaction were recorded. RESULTS: There was no difference in LIMA free flows before anastomosis between Group USP and Group TP (111.35±69.76 vs. 92.15±46.76, respectively, p=0.185). There was no significant difference between the groups in TTFM values evaluated after anastomosis (p&gt; 0.05). LIMA harvesting time was statistically shorter in Group USP than Group TP (13.90±3.01 vs. 16.65±4.50 respectively, p=0.049). Surgeon LIMA harvest satisfaction was statistically significantly higher in group USP (p=0.029). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: We think that papaverine injection via ultrasound-guided transverse thoracic muscle plane may be an alternative method to topical application to prevent LIMA spasm.

Left Internal Mammary Artery Dissection and Bleeding: A Matter of Trial Design, Not Technique

In this issue of The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Mazur and colleagues1 present the results of a small single-center randomized trial of 62 patients comparing the impact of skeletonized vs pedicled left internal mammary artery (LIMA) harvesting on bleeding after coronary artery bypass grafting. The primary outcome was cumulative mediastinal drainage 12 hours postoperatively, which was found to be 28% lower in patients with skeletonized vs pedicled LIMA. The effort of the Polish group is commendable, but several important issues related to their trial’s methodology must be considered.