Epicardial Colour-Doppler Scanning of Coronary Artery Stenoses and Graft Anastomoses

Abstract

Epicardial ultrasound scanning with the new 10 MHz transducer allowed satisfactory imaging of coronary stenoses and graft anastomoses. Factors limiting the quality of imaging are proximal lesions, intramyocardial vessel, vessel tortuosity, and extensive calcifications. Epicardial ultrasound scanning with updated technology should become a further advancement to graft assessment during off-pump coronary surgery.