Long-term patency rate for radial artery vs. saphenous vein grafts using same-patient materials.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to assess the long-term graft patency rate of the radial artery (RA), in comparison to the saphenous vein (SV) in patients harvested for both vessels.

METHODS AND RESULTS

RA and SV were concomitantly used for coronary artery bypass grafting in 318 patients in an 8-year period from January 2002 to March 2010. During follow-up, graft patency was assessed on angiography or multi-slice computed tomography in 192 of these patients. Cumulative graft patency rates were compared between RA and SV. Independent predictors for graft failure were examined for both vessels. Cumulative graft patency rates at 8 years were 74.3% in RA and 64.7% in SV, respectively. There was no significant difference between these types of grafts. Independent predictors of late RA graft failure were native coronary stenosis <75% and peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Independent predictors of late SV graft failure were use of only one anti-platelet agent and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio >2.5. Cardiovascular event-free and actuarial survival rates at 8 years in this series were 81.2% and 89.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Cumulative graft patency rates between RA and SV were similar at 8 years. RA performed more poorly in patients with target vessel stenosis <75% and in those complicated by PVD. Aggressive anti-platelet therapy and strict lipid control may be important in maintaining long-term patency of SV.