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 younge r patients. We present here the early results of CABG with gastroepiploic a rtery (GEA) composite graft with free radial artery (RA) to revascularize r ight coronary artery or left circumflex artery in addition to internal thor acic artery to left anterior descending artery. Methods. Between July 1997 and June 1998, 13 patients received CABG with GE A (larger caliber than 2.0 mm) composite graft. We have assessed the early results. Resullts There was no postoperative death or major morbidity. Postoperative angiogram was performed in 11 patients and all conduits were patent. Posto perative exercise stress test was done in 13 cases and showed no ischemia. Conclusions. Multiple CABG with arterial conduit can be performed by this p rocedure. The free RA functioned from secondary branches derived from proxi mal GEA. In conclusion, this procedure seems to be safe and effective, and both long-term patency and better quality of life may be expected. (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.