Radial artery: an alternative revascularization conduit.
In the early 1970s, patients underwent myocardial revascularization with a radial artery graft. Soon after its introduction as an additional arterial conduit, postprocedural complications were observed, and the use of this conduit was abandoned. A resurgence of the radial artery as a free graft was seen 20 years later. This article will discuss the background, renewing interests in the use of the radial artery, selection of candidates, perioperative preparation, medical/nursing considerations, and postoperative outcomes from an interdisciplinary approach.
Schouchoff
B
B
West Penn Allegheny Health System, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
Belhumeir
J
J
D006801:Humans; D009204:Myocardial Revascularization / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D019990:Perioperative Care; D017534:Radial Artery / Q000637:transplantation*; D020858:Tissue and Organ Harvesting