Objective : This study shows the results of our initial experience with OPCAB using Octopus ® stabilisation and evaluates the quality and safety of the anastomosis by early angiographic control (mean day 5 (d 3 – d 8)).
Method : From February 1999 till July 1999 a total of 42 OPCAB procedures were performed.
Patients were selected on the basis of technically appropriate coronary lesions and hemodynamic tolerance of rotation of the heart or the need to avoid CPB due to associated risk factors.
Early in-hospital angiographic control was performed in 24 patients (= 57 %).
Results: The mean age was 65 (40 – 87), the male/female ratio was 29/13, the majority had 3 vessel disease (22 3VD, 12 2VD, 6 1 VD, 2 left main). The mean EF was 67 % (30 – 91).
20 pts had 1 IMA, 22 pts 2 IMA's and in 4 pts one radial artery was used resulting in 2.6 distal anastomoses/pt (1.8 arterial, 0.8 venous).
One procedure was converted to ECC due to acute ventilatory problems. One high-risk patient died on day 5. Mean hospital stay was 10 days.
Early angiographic control showed a distal anastomosis patency rate of 100 % for the mammary artery, 100 % for the radial artery and 95 % for veins (1 anastomosis).
Conclusion : In our initial experience OPCAB surgery using Octopus ® 2 stabilisation appears to be a safe and effective technique in selected patients.