Anatomic bases of aorto-coronary bypasses: the internal thoracic artery and blood supply of the sternum.

The internal thoracic a. is much used in cardiac surgery because of its anatomic position, but its mobilisation may lead to devascularisation of the sternum. The aim of this study was to establish a precise systematisation of the vascularisation of the sternum by means of dissections and radiography after injection of contrast medium in 15 subjects. It is based on the internal thoracic a. and its collaterals, which form multiple anastomoses. This anatomic basis provides an understanding of the problems of the devascularisation (partial and temporary) and the infections that may occur following the use of one or both internal thoracic aa. during coronary bypass operations. However, it should always be regarded as the graft of choice, given the longevity of these bypasses.