Use of Extrafascially Harvested Radial Artery for Coronary Artery Revascularization: Technical Considerations

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The use of the radial artery for coronary artery revascularization was abandoned due to its tendency for spasm; the revival was attributed to improved harvesting technique as well as the use of calcium channel blockers. METHODS: Between February 1996 and June 1997, the radial artery graft was used in 77 of 89 consecutive patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Only the patients with positive Allen's test or forearm deformity were denied the use of the radial artery. We used an extrafascial, no-touch technique using low-strength electrocautery for harvesting the radial artery. Calcium channel blockers were not used in any of these patients. RESULTS: There were no early deaths. No patient sustained perioperative myocardial infarction or required intra-aortic balloon pump. Only one patient required inotropic agents. Three noncardiac late deaths occurred during the follow-up of 6 to 24 months. No early or late ischemic or functional forearm disability was reported in any of the patients. CONCLUSIONS: The radial artery is easy to harvest and safe to use routinely. When harvested extrafascially, diltiazem infusion may not be necessary. Maximal arterial-global revascularization using the left internal thoracic artery-to-left anterior descending coronary artery and radial artery-to-circumflex artery system may improve the early and long-term results.