Minimizing aortic manipulation during OPCAB using the symmetry aortic connector system for proximal vein graft anastomoses

Background. Since minimal invasive techniques have become increasingly common in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), there has been renewed interest in facilitated mechanical anastomoses devices that might have the potential of replacing the standard suturing techniques in vascular anastomoses. We report our initial experience with the successful creation of mechanical proximal vein graft anastomoses in off-pump coronary artery bypass operations. Methods. From August to December 2000, we investigated the first 20 consecutive patients who underwent CABG on the beating heart without extracorporeal circulation and who received at least one mechanical proximal vein graft anastomosis with the St. Jude Medical Symmetry aortic connector system without side-clamping of the aorta. We evaluated the different components of the system, the feasibility of such anastomoses, and the intraoperative flow measurements of the grafts using transit time methods. Results. A total of 32 proximal vein graft anastomoses were performed with the aortic connector system. Hemostasis was instantaneous in all cases except one, in which the connector was removed and the anastomosis was hand-sewn without complications. All other vein grafts were patent at the end of the procedure; intraoperative flow measurements were 39 +/- 25 mL/min for single vein grafts (n = 20) and 69 +/- 25 mL/min for sequential grafts (n = 11). Conclusions. The St. Jude Medical Symmetry aortic connector system is a user-friendly, effective, quick, and reliable device for sutureless proximal vein graft anastomosis in CABG. This system allows the construction of uniform and geometrically perfect anastomoses and does not require aortic side-biting. This technology is attractive for all CABG procedures because aortic manipulation is reduced. In off-pump surgical procedures the connector system allows aortic manipulation to be minimized, potentially reducing embolization from aortic wall debris. (C) 2001 by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons.