Radial artery is a muscular type artery and a structure in the volar forearm. Knowledge of volar forearm anatomy and landmarks ensures safe harvest with minimal postoperative complications. One works profounol very close to these important structures during the harvesting of radial artery from distal to proximal segment. Postoperative complications concerning to blood-supply, motor and sensory innervation can be eliminated if proper attention is directed to adherence to anatomical landmarks.

Methods:

In our clinic, radial artery is used for multiple arterial revascularization in coronary bypass surgery as an excellent additional bypass conduit to internal mammarian artery graft. Between June 1998 and September 1999, radial artery was used for coronary revascularization in 65 patients. Before the radial artery was harvested, the flow of the ulnar arteries was controlled using noninvasive tests in these patients. Radial artery was anastomozed to diagonal, circumflex and right coronary arteries except LAD.

Results:

We have not observed any complication in these patients. In 14 patients a control angiography was performed 3.14 ± 1.09 months (2 to 6) after coronary bypass surgery, and all anastomoses were found patent.

Conclusions:

Radial artery has been become the second choice for arterial graft with excellent results in coronary bypass surgery and using of this conduit becomes widespread.