The radial artery: which place in coronary operation?

Parolari, A; Rubini, P; Alamanni, F; Cannata, A; Xin, W; Gherli, T; Polvani, G L; Toscano, T et al. · Ann Thorac Surg · 2000

review · Level V

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Abstract

Previous long-term studies have shown unsatisfactory patency of saphenous vein grafts, compared with internal mammary artery grafts. Recently, the use of the radial artery as a coronary artery bypass graft has enjoyed a revival, on the basis of the belief that it will help improving long-term results of coronary operations. The recent report of encouraging 5-year patency rates, supports its continued use as a bypass graft. In this paper, we review the current knowledge about the radial artery as a bypass graft, with special emphasis on the clinical results.

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