Methods: Between January 2006 and May 2010, a total of 26 patients (23 males, 3 females; mean age 72.6±5.8 years; range 55 to 81 years) who underwent bypass surgery using the proximal aortic anastomosis assist device in our clinic were retrospectively analyzed. The indications for the utilization of the device were the presence of proximal aortic calcifications and atherosclerotic plaques in coronary artery bypass graft surgery and insufficient proximal aortic exploration additionally in redo coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Embolic events, neurological complications, the length of intensive care unit stay, and mortality rate were recorded.

Results: Off-pump single-vessel or two-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting without cardiopulmonary bypass was performed in 19 patients, while off-pump three-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting under cardiopulmonary bypass was performed in seven patients. Six patients underwent redo coronary artery bypass grafting. No neurological complications, embolic events or mortality were observed in any patients.

Conclusion: Proximal aortic anastomosis assist devices considerably facilitate proximal anastomosis in indicated patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. We believe that the utilization of these devices may also reduce the proximal anastomosis site-related complications which may occur during coronary artery bypass grafting.