DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znad258.255 ISSN:

436 Total Arterial Revascularisation Complicated by Unexpected Vasoconstrictor Requirements

G Raj Krishna, M Taylor, N Nwaejike
  • Surgery

Abstract

Introduction

The debate surrounding conduit selection in multi-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) persists. Whilst combined arterial and venous conduits remains the gold standard approach, some studies report superior long-term outcomes with total arterial revascularisation (TAR).

Case Description

A 48-year-old male was admitted with acute coronary syndrome. Investigations demonstrated significant triple vessel coronary artery disease with preserved biventricular systolic function. He had no major comorbidities. He underwent uneventful urgent off-pump CABG x 3 with TAR. Conduits used were a skeletonised left internal mammary artery (LIMA) and a radial artery. They were anastomosed to make a Y configuration. The LIMA was anastomosed end-to-side to the mid-LAD and the radial artery was anastomosed side-to-side to the first obtuse marginal and end-to-side to the posterior descending artery. Post-operatively the patient had significant drain output, resulting in haemodynamic instability and a significant increase in vasoconstrictor requirements. This led to vasoconstrictive spasm of the arterial grafts and cardiac arrest ensued. The patient underwent emergency re-sternotomy and institution of cardiopulmonary bypass. The arterial grafts were removed, and the patient was re-grafted with three saphenous vein grafts. The patient was successfully discharged home in a stable condition on the tenth post-operative day.

Discussion

Careful management of post-operative complications in patients who underwent TAR is required in order to reduce the risk of arterial graft spasm. Pre-operative planning should include the consideration of alternative conduit strategies in patients where higher post-operative vasoconstrictor requirements are anticipated.

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