Thoracotomy technique for bypass surgery

Posted By  CCF Cardio MD-SGM on November 14, 1997 at 10:17:49:

In Reply to: Thoracotomy technique for bypass surgery posted by Joe Amato on November 11, 1997 at 07:10:17:

: On October 2, l972, at age 52  I was the fortunate recipient of triple bypasses at the Cleveland Clinic.  My left internal mammary artery was used at the time, since my LAD was not large enough to accommodate a saphaneous vein.  
  Over the years, with splendid cardiac care, I have been able to enjoy a somewhat normal life.  In recent years I have undergone several angiograms, rotoblator angioplasty, stent angioplasty, and this past September received double bypasses using a left  thoracotomy technique (to avoid comprising my still-patent mammary).
  My surgeon had advised me I would experience more pain and discomfort than my previous sternum surgery - he was so right.  Two months later, I am still dealing with internal healing pain - but coping well.
  My questiion!  Since, as a member of Mended Hearts, for the past twenty years I have been providing visiting support to other heart patients trying to keep up-to-date on cardiac  techniques - - with what frequency would I expect to find re-do hospital patients who will have received the thoracotomy procedure?  

[CCF Cardio MD-SGM]

Dear Joe,
I'm glad you've done so well over the years.  Regarding your question, I can tell you that the incidence of left throracotomy approaches for coronary bypass surgery is quite low.  As you note, this approach is used, on occasion, to reduce the risk of injuring a functioning  internal mammary artery graft, but the approach has its limitations and downsides.  As a result,  I believe that well under five percent of patients undergo this particular approach for bypass surgery.  I would refer you to the surgical scheduling office if you'd like to seek out these individuals and provide them with visit support.
Best of luck to you.