A case for minimally invasive coronary surgery as primary treatment for left anterior descending coronary artery disease.
OBJECTIVE
The introduction of minimally invasive coronary bypass surgery has allowed the application of multiple approaches to coronary artery disease.


METHODS
Technologic developments have resolved patency and myocardial ischemic issues and increased surgical experience and training have combined to make more coronary bypass surgeons facile in minimally invasive surgical techniques.


RESULTS
These advances, along with the decreased invasiveness, shortened recovery and lower cost, suggest the application of these techniques to the primary treatment of disease of the anterior descending artery.


CONCLUSIONS
In selected circumstances such as these in which patient co-morbid risk factors would suggest high recurrence rates in complex lesions or total occlusion of the anterior descending coronary artery and present in cases of in-stent restenosis, primary application of minimally invasive bypass techniques may create long-term benefits for patients.
Emery
R W
RW
Cardiac Surgical Associates, P.A. Minneapolis, MN 55407, USA.
Arom
K V
KV
Flavin
T F
TF
Emery
A M
AM
D017023:Coronary Angiography; D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass / Q000379:methods*; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D016896:Treatment Outcome