Robotically enhanced coronary artery bypass grafting: the feasibility and clinical outcome of 196 procedures

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of robotically enhanced myocardial revascularization and to present the clinical outcome of 196 patients. METHODS: All internal thoracic arteries were harvested with the aid of a robotic surgical system. While off-pump revascularization techniques were mostly used, peripheral cardiopulmonary bypass was needed in some cases with multivessel disease. RESULTS: A single (n = 118) or multivessel (n = 74) coronary revascularization was performed. Four patients had to be converted to median sternotomy. There was no operative mortality. Follow-up was complete in 88% (n = 169) patients. The rate of freedom from ischaemic symptoms was 98.2% at mean 22 +/- 3 months. Graft patency was 96.4% (81/84). CONCLUSIONS: By increasing surgical capabilities, robotically enhanced CABG in single or multivessel coronary disease was safe, effective and reasonable. It can be an alternative approach to percutaneous methods and conventional surgical techniques, or even used in acute coronary events.