Technical Aspects of the Use of the Radial Artery in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Background The radial artery has been used for coronary artery bypass surgery for more than 25 years. The recent confirmation of the clinical benefits associated with the use of the artery is likely to drive a new interest toward this conduit in the next few years. Methods A group of surgeons with extensive experience in the systematic use of the radial artery summarize here the key technical aspects of the use of the conduit for coronary bypass operations. Results Preoperative evaluation of the ulnar collateral circulation and attention to the characteristics of the target vessel are keys for the successful use of the radial artery. Open or endoscopic harvesting can be used, preferentially with the aid of the harmonic scalpel. The use of vasodilatory and antispastic protocols is probably important but poorly supported by the current evidence. The radial artery can be used for multiple grafting strategies with a variable degree of technical complexity. Conclusions With attention to few technical key points, the radial artery is a versatile conduit that can be easily introduced in the everyday practice of coronary artery bypass surgery.