Long-term results of the radial artery used for myocardial revascularization.

BACKGROUND No information is available on the long-term results of radial artery (RA) grafts used as coronary artery bypass conduits. METHODS AND RESULTS In this report, we describe the long-term (105+/-9 months) angiographic results of a series of 90 consecutive patients in whom the RA was used as a coronary artery bypass conduit directly anastomosed to the ascending aorta. The long-term patency and perfect patency rates of the RA were 91.6% and 88%, respectively, versus 97.5% and 96.3% for internal thoracic artery grafts. The severity of stenosis of the target vessel clearly influenced long-term RA patency, whereas location of the target vessel and long-term use of calcium channel blockers did not influence angiographic results. Preserved endothelial function and absence of flow-limiting, fibrous, intimal hyperplasia were also documented. CONCLUSIONS Ten years after surgery, RA grafts have excellent patency and perfect patency rates. Appropriate surgical technique and correct indication are the key factors for long-term RA patency.