Journal of cardiac surgery
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Endothoracic injection of room air for internal mammary artery harvest.
Arterial spasm is described as an event occurring after internal mammary artery (IMA) harvesting. Endothoracic papaverine and carbon dioxide application have been used to prevent IMA spasm before surgical dissection. This technique may make harvest quicker and easier. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of room air injection into the endothoracic fascia on IMA blood flow and harvest time. ⋯ Injection of room air beneath the endothoracic fascia before IMA dissection may prevent spasm and shorten harvest time, which avoids any risk of intimal injury.