Algorithm for Recanalization of Chronic Totally Occluded (CTO) Native Coronary Arteries Through a Diseased or Occluded Saphenous Vein Graft in Post Bypass Patients.

Abstract

Chronic total occlusion (CTO) desobstruction of a native coronary artery in a post coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patient can be a challenging procedure. In principle, the 3 basic approaches of recanalization of occluded native coronary arteries can be used: antegrade wire escalation (AWE), antegrade dissection re-entry (ADR) and a retrograde technique. On the other hand, a previous implanted saphenous vein graft (SVG) – even when occluded – can be used as a conduit for retrograde access. Moreover, access through a graft might be less complex compared to the use of septal or epicardial collaterals. If the graft is still open or has a tapered stump, this should be considered as a suitable conduit. Literature on recanalization of occluded native coronary arteries trough a diseased or occluded SVG is limited. A flowchart with an algorithm in post CABG patients is proposed and illustrated by 3 clinical cases.