Surgical revascularization in women.
Multiple studies have shown that coronary bypass surgery in women clearly has a higher risk of operative death.  The reason for this higher risk remain less clear, however.  Although earlier studies suggested that women were at higher risk due to their smaller body size, several recent studies have suggested that a significant component of the higher mortality of women may be late referral for bypass surgery.  Complication rates and hospital stay also appear to be higher in women.  Although operative mortality is higher, women have similar long-term results from bypass surgery.  Thus, coronary bypass surgery is a valuable treatment option for women with advanced coronary disease with excellent long-term outcomes.  The short-term outcomes of women referred for bypass surgery may be improved with earlier referral of women for revascularization.
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California.
S S
SS
Khan
J M
JM
Matloff
D015906:Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary; D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000401:mortality; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012307:Risk Factors; D012737:Sex Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome