IMPORTANCE OF TRANSIT TIME FLOW MEASUREMENT IN CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFTING

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the effect and ability of detection of graft patency by
intraoperative transit time flow measurement in coronary artery bypass grafting. Methods: A prospective
study of Five hundred and seventy five patients underwent on-pump isolate coronary artery bypass
grafting performed by the author between January 2009 till July 2010. transit time flow measurement
was routinely performed for assessment of graft patency during operation. Interpretation of the values
obtained using the transit time flow measurement determined whether or not to revise a graft. Results:
Patency of 1868 grafts using transit time flow measurement were assessed. Revision was required for 8
grafts (0.4%) in eight patients based on unsatisfactory transit time flow measurement findings.
Conclusions: Transit time flow measurement seems to be important in deciding whether a graft is patent
or not, and it allows for improvement of surgical outcome.
Key Words: CABG • Transit time flow measurement • Graft patency