Minimizing aortic manipulation during OPCAB using the symmetry aortic connector system for proximal vein graft anastomoses

Anastomotic devices for coronary artery bypass grafting

With the advent of off-pump and minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting, efforts to facilitate construction of the graft to coronary anastomosis have increased. As a result, a number of anastomotic devices have been developed. While the ideal anastomotic device should be easy to use, produce a geometrically optimal anastomosis with minimal endothelial damage and minimal blood-exposed nonintimal surface, a number of design constraints apply. This review collects the available preclinical and clinical data for some of the devices, with special regard as to surgical outcome, patency rate and the need for additional perioperative anticoagulation treatment.

Safe introduction and quality control of new methods in coronary surgery

Introduction:

The first part of the paper analyses off pump coronary bypass surgery (OPCAB), which is compared with traditional on-pump procedures (ONCAB). Furthermore ,the paper evaluates the use of a new automatic device for performance of the proximal anastomosis and finally the effect of intracoronary shunt on myocardial ischemia during OPCAB. The main goal of the paper is to demonstrate the importance of careful clinical studies during introduction of the new techniques in cardiac surgery.

Methods:

Statistical analysis was performed on a large clinical database from Buffalo, NY, USA comparing OPCAB and ONCAB. Subsequently, a sequential controlled clinical study compared patients operated with a new automatic connector device to patients operated with classic suture technique. Finally a randomized study was performed to evaluate the effect of the use of an intracoronary shunt during construction of distal anastomosis.

Results:

The studies from Buffalo demonstrated reduced complications rates in high risk patients when OPCAB techniques were used. The use of connector devices in saphenous venous anastomosis was clearly inferior to standard technique. Intracoronary shunt was found to be beneficial by preventing ischemia.

Discussion:

Numerous studies have studied the results of OPCAB vs ONCAB and although results are variable it seems that OPCAB is advantageous in high risk patients, while in low risk patients there are much less if any benefit. The results of the studies of connector devices caused the product to be taken off the market. The value of shunt in OPCAB was clearly demonstrated by the randomized studies.

Conclusion:

The investigations presented in this paper clearly demonstrates the importance of well-designed studies when new surgical methods are introduced. In the present period of rapid technological development, carefully controlled, un-biased clinical trials are crucial to preserve patient safety and avoid unjustified societal cost.

[Historical review and future orientations of the conventional vascular microanastomoses]

Microvascular surgery has become an important method for reconstructing surgical defects due to trauma, tumors or after burn. The most important factor for successful free flap transfer is a well-executed anastomosis. The time needed to perform the anastomosis and the failure rate are not negligible despite the high level of operator's experience. During the history, many alternatives were tried to help the microsurgeon and to reduce the complications. A Medline literature search was performed to find articles dealing with non-suture methods of microvascular anastomosis. Many historical books were also included. The non-suture techniques can be divided into four groups based on the used mechanism of sutures: double intubation including tubes and stents, intubation-eversion including simple rings, double eversion including staples and double rings, and wall adjustement with adhesives or laser. All these techniques were able to produce a faster and easier microvascular anastomosis. Nevertheless, disadvantages of the suturless techniques include toxicity, high cost, leakage or aneurysm formation. More refinement is needed before their widespread adoption. Thus, laser-assisted microvascular anastomosis using 1,9 μm diode laser appeared to be a safe and reliable help for the microsurgeon and may be further developed in the near future.

A multicenter prospective randomized trial of a second-generation anastomotic device in coronary artery bypass surgery

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to perform a prospective randomized trial to evaluate the clinical and angiographic outcomes of a second-generation anastomotic device used for saphenous vein grafts.

METHODS

Patients undergoing nonemergency isolated coronary artery bypass grafting at 3 centers from August 2003 to December 2004 with at least 2 saphenous vein grafts were included. The proximal anastomoses were randomized, within each patient, to be constructed by the connector or by suture. One-year graft patency was evaluated by coronary angiography, magnetic resonance imaging, or computed tomography and analyzed on an intent-to-treat basis.

RESULTS

A total of 151 patients (65 +/- 9 years, 87% male) who met inclusion/exclusion criteria were enrolled in the study and were analyzed. A total of 489 grafts were constructed (3.2 +/- 0.5 grafts per patient), including 327 vein grafts randomized to the connector (n = 162) or suture (n = 165). In 162 connector grafts, 151 devices were successfully implanted. Technical issues required explantation of 11 devices intraoperatively. Patency was evaluated in 120 (81%) patients with 260 study grafts. Seventy-four patients with 161 grafts were evaluated by coronary angiography, 31 patients with 69 grafts by magnetic resonance imaging, and 15 patients with 30 grafts by computed tomography. The 1-year patency rate for study grafts constructed with the anastomotic connector was 92.2% (118/128) and for hand-sutured grafts, 91.7% (121/132).

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial demonstrated good in-hospital and late clinical outcomes and excellent 1-year patency for vein grafts anastomosed both by the St Jude Medical second-generation aortic connector system and by hand. The patency of the connector grafts did not differ from that of the hand-sutured grafts.

Study of coronary artery bypass using the PAS-Port device: assessment by multidetector computed tomography

OBJECTIVE

The use of automatic anastomotic devices in coronary artery bypass grafting surgery is associated with lower patency rates in comparison to conventional anastomosis methods. This is thought to be caused by graft curvature occurring after closing of the chest wall.

METHODS

We evaluated 39 grafts in 28 patients who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery using the PAS-Port. After surgery, the proximal anastomotic angle of each stent, graft morphology, and patency were evaluated with axial and sagittal views.

RESULTS

The angle for the left anterior descending coronary artery segment was relatively obtuse on the left side of the ascending aorta, and the graft loop formation was not necessary. The angle for the left circumflex coronary artery segment was significantly acute for anastomosis from the upper left side of the ascending aorta. Because grafts are under the constraints of a large loop, graft length tended to become easily excessive or deficient. The angle for the right coronary artery segment was relatively obtuse. The space on the right side of the heart was so narrow that in some cases we had difficulty setting out the appropriate graft location to prevent graft curvature. No bending or stenosis was present in any graft, showing a patency rate of 100%.

CONCLUSION

The short-term results of coronary bypass grafting using PAS-Port are satisfactory.

Forty-one-month follow-up of the Symmetry aortic connector system for proximal venous anastomosis

OBJECTIVE

Results of short- and midterm follow-up studies of the patency rate of the Symmetry aortic connector systems (St Jude Medical, Inc, Minneapolis, Minn) are controversial. Long-term follow-up studies are still lacking (so far, the longest mean follow-up period was 19 months). The aim of our study was (1) to evaluate the patency rate of this device over a longer time-period and (2) to analyze risk factors for graft occlusion.

METHODS

Between November 2000 and July 2003, 76 Symmetry aortic connector systems were implanted in 42 patients. At follow-up, 24 patients with 44 mechanical connectors were studied with 64-slice cardiac computed tomography. Eight patients had died previously, 6 patients refused to undergo a computed tomographic scan, and 4 patients had to be excluded because of impaired renal function.

RESULTS

From a total of 44 mechanical connectors studied, 24 (55%) were occluded, 20 (45%; confidence intervals 31%-61%) were patent, and 7 of these grafts showed stenosis in the area of the connector. Mean follow-up was 41 +/- 10 months (18-52 months). Sex, age, left main stenosis, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, renal failure, target vessel, stenosis of the target vessel, diameter of the target vessel, type of surgical intervention, diabetes, ejection fraction, postoperative anticoagulation regimen, and the connector size showed no significant influence on the bypass graft patency (P > .05). The bypass graft flow was recognized to be the only risk factor for bypass graft occlusion (P = .0256).

CONCLUSION

Midterm follow-up data show a high number of occluded Symmetry aortic connector system vein grafts. On the basis of these observations, the use of the connector was abandoned at our institution.

Gaseous and solid cerebral microembolization during proximal aortic anastomoses in off-pump coronary surgery: the effect of an aortic side-biting clamp and two clampless devices

OBJECTIVES

Intraoperative cerebral microembolism is a cause of cerebral dysfunction after cardiac surgery, and particulate microemboli are the most damaging. Using a new-generation transcranial Doppler ultrasound, we compared the number and nature of microemboli in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting during performance of proximal anastomoses with three techniques: an aortic side-biting clamp and two clampless devices (the Enclose II device [Novare Surgical Systems, Inc, Cupertino, Calif] and the Heartstring II device [Guidant Corporation, Santa Clara, Calif]) developed to obviate the need for an aortic side-biting clamp, thereby reducing the number of cerebral microemboli.

METHODS

Bilateral continuous monitoring of the middle cerebral arteries was performed with a multirange, multifrequency transcranial Doppler device that both automatically rejects artifacts online and discriminates between solid and gaseous microemboli. Recordings were continuously undertaken during performance of 66 proximal aortic anastomoses in 42 patients. Thirty-five anastomoses were performed with an aortic side-biting clamp, 20 with the Enclose device, and 11 the Hearstring device.

RESULTS

Most microemboli occurred during application/insertion and removal of each device from the ascending aorta. The median number (interquartile range) of total microemboli was 11 (6-32) during side clamping, 11 (6-15) with the Enclose device, 40 (31-48) with the Heartstring device (P < .01). The proportion of solid microemboli was significantly higher in the side-clamp group (23%) compared with 6% and 1% in the Enclose and Heartstring groups, respectively (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Avoidance of aortic side clamping results in a significant reduction in the proportion of solid microemboli detected with transcranial Doppler. As solid microemboli are probably the most damaging, use of the Enclose and Heartstring devices may represent an important strategy for minimizing cerebral injury during proximal aortic anastomoses.

Mid-term follow up of patients using the St. Jude Medical Aortic Connector System for proximal vein graft in CABG

The aortic connector system may reduce stroke during proximal venous anastomosis. However, the overall anastomotic patency rate has been generally reported to be low. From October 2002 to March 2004, 68 patients who received proximal anastomosis using the St. Jude Aortic Connector System were included in the study. There were 47 men and 21 women and their mean age was 65.68+/-6.68 yr old (52 to 85 yr). Grafts were evaluated by coronary angiography or multi-slice 16 channel 3-D CT at 6 days and at 6 months postoperatively. In the immediate postoperative period, no stenosis was observed by either angiography (n=22) or 3D CT (n=46). At 6-month postoperatively, we performed either angiography (n=7) or 3-D CT (n=52). Of these patients, 5 patients showed graft stenosis in the midportion, and 3 in the ostium. There were no stroke. Simple, and effective proximal anastomosis with good protection from cerebrovascular accident was achieved especially when calcification or atheromatous plaque was observed at the ascending aorta in the operation room. However, our mid term patency results raise concerns related to venous graft stenosis in the midportion. Therefore, longer follow up is recommended.

The Symmetrytrade mark devices for proximal and distal anastomoses in coronary surgery

Recent developments in minimally invasive coronary artery surgery have been driven by the introduction of new technologies which should facilitate precise surgical maneuvers on the beating heart within confined spaces. Such technologies include coronary stabilizer systems, cardiac positioning vacuum-assisted devices and, to some extent, telemanipulative systems. Despite these developments, standard suturing techniques using running polypropylene material remain a limiting factor in the surgeon's ability to perform complete revascularization with high quality anastomoses through minimal approaches to the chest cavity. Clinical validation of proximal and distal anastomotic devices has the potential to substantially improve and perhaps revolutionize minimally invasive coronary surgery. Ideal characteristics of such devices would include applicability to all conduit types, all coronary sizes, interchangeable proximal/distal sequencing of the anastomosis and safe bail out for device malfunction. However there is an urgent need to define the performance objectives of such systems as well as the general criteria for proper and comparable evaluation and validation of different systems in animal models and subsequently in controlled prospective clinical studies. In this review, we present different generations of the Symmetrytrade mark devices (ATG, St Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN) for proximal and distal coronary anastomoses.

Experimental Study of Aortic Anastomosis Using a Circular Stapling Device in the Porcine Model

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the strength (pressure resistance) and histological findings of aortic anastomoses performed using a circular stapling device.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A circular stapling device was used for anastomosing a porcine aorta and a Dacron graft. The maximum pressure resistance of the anastomotic site of a porcine aortic specimen and a Dacron graft was examined (n=10). A porcine aorta with Dacron graft was anastomosed to a beating heart, and pressure overload was induced by adrenaline (n=5). Specimens of the anastomotic sites were harvested after 14 days and examined histologically.

RESULTS

The maximum pressure resistance of the anastomotic site was 427.3+/-34.4 (375-511) mmHg. No anastomotic sites leaked as a result of pressure overloading at 227.6+/-21.1 (201-260) mmHg. Histologically, good incorporation and cell coverage were observed, and the inner surfaces of the anastomotic sites were smooth and without stenoses.

CONCLUSIONS

Aortic anastomosis using a circular stapling device is feasible and worthy of further investigation.

Treatment of ischemic stroke complicating cardiac catheterization with systemic thrombolytic therapy

Ischemic stroke is a rare but serious complication of cardiac catheterization. We report a case in which systemic thrombolytic therapy was successfully utilized in treating a patient with a cerebellar stroke, leading to obtundation during elective cardiac catheterization. Underlying bilateral vertebrobasilar disease with thrombotic embolization to the basilar artery was postulated to be the pathophysiological basis for the stroke and subsequent success of thrombolytic treatment in this patient. As the consequences of this rare complication are severe, systemic thrombolytic therapy should be considered for patients suffering an acute ischemic stroke during cardiac catheterization or percutaneous coronary intervention.

Symmetry™ Aortic Connector Devices and Acute Renal Injury: A Comparison of Renal Dysfunction After Three Different Aortocoronary Bypass Surgery Techniques

Although the pathogenesis of acute renal injury after cardiac surgery is multifactorial, atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta and embolic burden are strong independent predictors. Use of the Symmetry aortic connector device (ACD) for proximal anastomosis of coronary grafts may reduce ascending aortic atheroembolism. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) surgery performed using an ACD is associated with less postoperative renal dysfunction compared with conventional OPCAB or on-pump coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Three-thousand-three-hundred consecutive patients undergoing non-emergent aortocoronary bypass surgery were retrospectively divided into three groups by surgical procedure; Group A: OPCAB with ACD (n = 124), Group B: standard OPCAB (n = 313), Group C: on-pump CABG (n = 2863). Postoperative peak fractional change in creatinine compared with baseline was used as a measure of renal outcome. Multivariable analysis did not identify ACD use as an independent predictor of postoperative peak fractional change in creatinine (P = 0.71), although the relationships of several known renal risk factors with postoperative peak fractional change in creatinine were confirmed. We could not find evidence that OPCAB surgery using ACDs reduces acute renal injury compared with standard OPCAB or CABG surgery.

Early and midterm patency of the proximal anastomoses of saphenous vein grafts made with a Symmetry Aortic Connector System

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate (1) the early and midterm patency rates in saphenous vein grafts that were anastomosed with the Symmetry Aortic Connector System (St Jude Medical, Inc, St Paul, Minn) and (2) risk factors for graft occlusion.

METHODS

Thirty-one patients underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting for proximal saphenous vein graft anastomoses with the aortic connector system. Intraoperative graft flow was studied with transit time flowmetry, and angiography was performed before discharge in 29 cases. Midterm (at least 1 year after the operation) saphenous vein graft patency was assessed by coronary angiography or 3-dimensional coronary computed tomography in 27 cases.

RESULTS

Postoperative angiography demonstrated a 100% patency rate and no significant stenosis at the connector-anastomosed sites. The 1-year patency rate of the saphenous vein grafts with the aortic connector system was 92.6%, with 2 cases of saphenous vein graft occlusion. Both of these cases had low graft flow and poor left ventricular function documented during the operation.

CONCLUSION

Once surgical errors had been ruled out, the 1-year patency rate of proximal saphenous vein grafts anastomosed with the aortic connector system was favorable. Poor left ventricular function and low graft flow during the operation were risk factors for midterm graft occlusion. Selection of the target vessel and its runoff may also be an important determinant of long-term patency.

The Second-Generation Aortic Connector: Six Months’ Angiographic Follow-Up

PURPOSE

Recently, new mechanical anastomotic devices have been developed. Initial results appear to be equivalent to those obtained with suture. The aim of the study was to evaluate the 6-month angiographic patency and clinical results with the St. Jude Medical second-generation aortic connector for proximal aortosaphenous graft anastomosis.

DESCRIPTION

From September 2002 to June 2003, 45 connectors were implanted in 39 patients. Thirty-three patients with 36 connectors underwent 6-month angiographic and clinical follow-up.

EVALUATION

One connector had an early occlusion and 2 connectors and 1 vein graft were occluded at 6-month angiography, for a patency rate of 88.9% (32 of 36). No device-related complications were detected at 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The second-generation aortic connector is safe and easy to use. Preliminary results show no device-related complications and a satisfactory 6-month angiographic patency.

First Clinical Experience With the HEARTSTRING, a Device for Proximal Anastomoses in Coronary Surgery

PURPOSE

The HEARTSTRING is a device designed to enable the creation of a clampless hand-sewn proximal anastomosis.

DESCRIPTION

Seventy-six patients who underwent myocardial revascularization had 113 proximal anastomoses created by the HEARTSTRING. Fifty-five procedures were performed on cardiopulmonary bypass and 21, off pump.

EVALUATION

Of 114 intended proximal anastomoses, 113 (99.1%) were successfully performed using the HEARTSTRING. The conduits anastomosed proximal with support of the HEARTSTRING were in 92 cases saphenous veins and in 21 cases radial arteries. Mean time to perform a HEARTSTRING-supported anastomosis was 6.6 +/- 1.2 minutes. One patient (1.3%) died postoperatively; the death was not device related. In 1 additional patient (1.3%), a stroke most likely due to air embolism occurred. Forty-nine patients (64.5%) underwent a predischarge coronary angiography (n = 20) or a contrast multislice computed tomography (n = 29). Of 76 grafts with a HEARTSTRING-supported proximal anastomosis, 74 (97.4%) were patent in these 49 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our initial clinical experience with the HEARTSTRING demonstrates safety, reliability, and ease of use. Side clamping of the ascending aorta can be avoided, potentially decreasing the incidence of neurologic complications.

A new mechanical connector for distal coronary artery anastomoses in coronary artery bypass grafting: A randomized, controlled study

OBJECTIVE

A new mechanical anastomotic device was evaluated, aiming at its future use in minimally invasive techniques or limited access surgery in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.

METHODS

Between April and December 2002, a total of 60 patients scheduled for elective multivessel bypass grafting were randomly assigned. One vein graft-coronary artery anastomosis per patient was either performed with the St Jude Medical ATG coronary connector system (n = 30; St Jude Medical Inc, St Paul, Minn) or hand sewn (n = 30). Selective coronary angiography or coronary magnetic resonance imaging of the studied graft and vessel was included in the 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight of the connectors were successfully implanted. Two patients were excluded from the study because of conversion to hand-sewn anastomoses. Six connector-made anastomoses were bleeding at the anastomotic site. At the time of follow-up (190 postoperative days), all control anastomoses and grafts were patent, whereas 26% of the connector anastomoses were occluded. One graft in each group was patent but with stenosis.

CONCLUSION

The St Jude Medical ATG coronary connector system for distal anastomoses represents a new concept for sutureless anastomoses in cardiac surgery. This randomized, controlled study shows lower graft patency for anastomoses performed with the connector than for hand-sewn control anastomoses. It illustrates the importance of controlled studies when evaluating new technical equipment in medicine.

The use of aortic connector as shunt during endarterectomy of innominate artery

The St. Jude aortic connector system (St. Jude Medical, Inc, St. Paul, MN) is being increasingly used for the construction of vein proximal anastomosis in coronary artery bypass grafting. We suggest a possible use of the connected vein as temporary shunt during open endarterectomy of the innominate artery and at the same time as graft for coronary artery bypass grafting.

Early results and problems with St. Jude Medical Symmetry bypass system in Japan

The early results of coronary artery grafting with an aortic connector system were assessed in Japanese patients. From May 2002 through April 2003, 24 consecutive patients underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass using an aortic connector system. Another patient was excluded because the saphenous vein was insufficient for the smallest available aortic connector system. Saphenous veins were harvested from the thigh in 17 (70.8%) patients, and from the lower leg in 7. The size of the aortic connector system was 4.5-5.0 mm in 19 (79.2%) patients. Intraoperative epiaortic echo indicated that a side-clamp was contraindicated in 15 cases. Hemostasis was instantaneous in all patients. There were no hospital deaths and no neurologic morbidity. Pre-discharge angiography revealed 100% patency of the anastomoses. Use of the aortic connector system demonstrated excellent early results with low neurologic morbidity even when employed in the context of an atheromatous ascending aorta. However, smaller sizes of the device are required for some Japanese patients.

Off-pump coronary artery bypass in patients with Takayasu's disease

We report 2 patients with ostial stenoses of coronary arteries and heavy aortic calcification caused by Takayasu's disease in which severe angina was successfully relieved by off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. In one case, visceral arteries such as the right gastroepiploic artery, the superior mesenteric artery, and the splenic artery were used as proximal blood sources of saphenous vein grafts. In another case, an aortic connector system was employed for proximal anastomoses of saphenous vein grafts. The use of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting techniques should be considered in surgical coronary revascularization in patients with Takayasu's disease, thus leading to wide-spreading indication for the surgery.

Percutaneous intervention over the origin of a saphenous vein graft anastomosed with the St. Jude Medical Symmetry Aortic Connector System

We describe a percutaneous intervention performed over the proximal anastomoses of an aortocoronary saphenous vein graft that had been attached to the aorta 3 months before with the St. Jude Medical Symmetry Aortic Connector System. Technical aspects of procedure are discussed, and the experience previously reported in the literature related to this issue is reviewed.

Clinical and angiographic results after mechanical connection for distal anastomosis in coronary surgery

BACKGROUND

Sutureless anastomotic devices are of increasing interest in cardiovascular surgery. We investigated the stainless steel clip system of St Jude Medical/Anastomotic Technology Group (Maple Grove, Minn) to connect saphenous vein grafts with coronary arteries.

METHODS

Forty-five patients were enrolled in this feasibility study performed on patients who had on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting, but 32 patients only received 1 distal anastomosis with this investigational device (2.5 mm [n = 14] and 2.0 mm [n = 18]). Thirteen were excluded because target vessels were too small, calcified, or tortuous. The system consists of an expandable clip mounted on a balloon catheter; delivery is obtained during balloon inflation. The main differences between the 2.5-mm and 2.0-mm devices are different loading and deployment in smaller coronary arteries for the 2.0-mm device.

RESULTS

A connecting device was deployed on the right coronary artery in 14 patients, the posterior descending branch in 12 patients, the obtuse marginal in 5 patients, and the posterolateral branch in 1 patient. Perfect hemostasis of the sutureless connector anastomosis was obtained in 28 patients. Three connectors were removed because of minor leakage at the connection site, and 1 connector was removed because of mismanipulation after successful deployment. Hand-sewn anastomosis was performed at the same arteriotomy site. Intraoperative flow was assessed by the transit time method and averaged 71 +/- 24 mL/min. One patient died of neurologic injury; the connector was patent at autopsy. One patient had a perioperative myocardial infarction. There was no adverse cardiac event in the remaining patients. All patients underwent clinical follow-up after 6 and 12 months and 35 angiograms were available in 21 patients: after 3 and 6 months, 17 anastomoses were patent and the saphenous vein graft was occluded in 4 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The coronary connector system from St Jude Medical/Anastomotic Technology Group allows consistently uniform sutureless connection between the saphenous vein graft and coronary artery. Loading and deployment require careful training. This technology is under constant development and may give a significant boost to less invasive coronary revascularization techniques.

First-year outcomes of beating heart coronary artery bypass grafting using proximal mechanical connectors

BACKGROUND

To determine the extended results of mechanical connectors we compared the 1-year outcomes of patients having beating heart coronary artery bypass surgery with at least one sutured or mechanically connected proximal vein graft anastomosis.

METHODS

From May 2001 to December 2001, 166 patients were identified as having undergone off-pump bypass grafting utilizing at least one St. Jude symmetry aortic connector (St Jude Medical Anastomotic Technology Group, St. Paul, MN). Follow-up for major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), which is defined as cardiac mortality, myocardial infarction, or revascularization of a previous target vessel, was obtained on 162 patients (97.6%). A control group of 159 patients was identified from a cohort of patients having beating heart surgery with one or more sutured proximal vein graft anastomosis in the preceding year. The MACE follow-ups were obtained in 136 patients (85.6%) by direct telephone contact.

RESULTS

Patients with connectors showed an accelerated number of MACEs beginning approximately 180 days from the time of surgery and stabilizing at approximately 300 days. Logistic regression analysis identified the presence of diabetes as a significant preoperative risk factor predisposing patients to earlier onset of MACEs (p = 0.03) with an odds ratio of 2.9 (95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 7.6). Insulin dependent diabetics showed no differences between connector and control patients in the frequency or timing of MACEs. Connector patients using oral hypoglycemic agents demonstrated a significant deviation (p = 0.01) from a similar control population in the prevalence and timing of MACEs.

CONCLUSIONS

Connector patients showed an increased incidence of early MACEs. These events were characterized by an increased requirement for early target vessel revascularization and were predominantly in noninsulin-dependent diabetics.

Early bypass occlusion after deployment of nitinol connector devices

BACKGROUND

Reducing the negative side effects associated with extracorporeal circulation is the major advantage of off-pump revascularization. However, side clamping of a calcified aorta for proximal anastomoses can cause emboli, resulting in neurologic damage. This problem has been addressed by introducing a mechanical anastomosis device (Symmetry, St Jude Medical) that allows vein-to-aorta anastomosis without manipulating the aorta. This report describes our experience with this device.

METHODS

Between June 2001 and April 2002, 77 connectors (1.3 per patient) were deployed in 61 patients (51 men and 10 women; mean age, 68 +/- 8.6 years) undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting or beating-heart revascularization. Intraoperative quality assessment included transit-time flow measurement (Medistim) and indocyanine green-based angiography (Spy, Novadaq).

RESULTS

The surgeons were meticulously trained in loading of the device. No postoperative neurologic deficits were detected. Fifty-three patients had an uneventful course. However, 8 (13.1%) patients with 12 implanted connectors were symptomatic within 8 months (1 day to 8 months). Angiography revealed significant (95%) stenosis or even occlusion of the proximal vein-to-aorta anastomosis at the level of all connectors. Four patients underwent reoperation (2 dilated-stented and 2 treated with drugs).

CONCLUSION

On the basis of these observations, the routine use of the connector was halted at our institution. At the moment, the use of this therapy is reserved for patients with severely calcified aortas with no technical alternative. Further investigations appear necessary to evaluate the clinical patterns of this otherwise promising technology.

Sutureless Videoendoscopic Thoracic Aorta to Iliac Artery Bypass: The Easiest Approach to Occlusive Aorto-iliac Diseases

OBJECTIVE

We designed an animal study to determine the feasibility of videoendoscopic thoracic aorta to iliac artery bypass using a sutureless anastomotic device for proximal anastomosis construction.

METHODS

In 12 pigs the descending thoracic aorta was exposed using the thoracoscopic technique. A 4 mm PTFE thin wall graft was used as conduit. The proximal anastomosis was constructed using a mechanical device for sutureless anastomosis inserted through the camera port incision. The prosthesis was passed through the diaphragm in the retroperitoneal space and the distal anastomosis was done with running suture.

RESULTS

The operation was successfully completed in 11 animals. One animal died due to hemorrage during anastomosis construction. Mean graft flow was 144 ml/min (range 88-167 mmHg). The angiogram showed no graft kinking or stenosis. Total operative time was 58 min (range 47-68 min).

CONCLUSIONS

This approach allows quick and excellent exposure of the entire descending thoracic aorta. The use of the sutureless device to perform the proximal anastomosis dramatically reduces the technical demands of this procedure and could avoid an aortic clamp.

Skeletonized radial artery graft with the St. Jude medical symmetry bypass system (aortic connector system)

BACKGROUND

We report our initial experience with an automatic anastomotic device using skeletonized radial artery in patients requiring off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

METHODS

St. Jude Medical, Inc, Symmetry Bypass System (aortic connector system [ACS]) (St Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN) was used in ten patients. Ten consecutive patients who underwent off-pump CABG and who received at least one radial artery graft proximal anastomosis using the ACS were evaluated. The radial artery (RA) was harvested in a skeletonized fashion and applied to the ACS in the same manner as applying saphenous vein graft. The creation of the anastomosis lasted no longer than a few seconds.

RESULTS

Our attempt to use the ACS for proximal anastomosis of the RA was successful in all ten patients. Mean operating time was 3.2 +/- 0.6 minutes and an average of 3.0 +/- 0.9 bypass grafts (range, 2 to 5 grafts) were performed. There was no postoperative fatal complication. Postoperative angiographic control showed that all grafts were widely patent including grafts other than the RA. During the mean postoperative follow-up of 10.3 +/- 2.9 months, there was no cardiac-related event in any patient.

CONCLUSIONS

The St. Jude Medical Symmetry aortic connector system allows the construction of uniform and widely patent anastomoses in RA graft and does not require aortic side biting. Skeletonization of the RA is a safe and effective technique for applying ACS in off-pump CABG using multiple arterial grafts.

Clinical experience with devices for facilitated anastomoses in coronary artery bypass surgery

Recent developments in minimally invasive coronary artery surgery have been driven by the introduction of new technologies which should facilitate precise surgical maneuvers on the beating heart within confined spaces. Such technologies include coronary stabilizer systems, cardiac positioning vacuum-assisted devices, and telemanipulative systems. Despite these developments, standard suturing techniques using running polypropylene material remains a limiting factor in the surgeon's ability to perform complete revascularization with high quality anastomoses through minimal approaches to the chest cavity. Clinical validation of proximal and distal anastomotic devices has the potential to substantially improve and perhaps revolutionize minimally invasive coronary surgery. Ideal characteristics of such devices would include applicability to all conduit types, all coronary sizes, interchangeable proximal/distal sequencing of the anastomosis, and safe bail out for device malfunction. However there is an urgent need to define the performance objectives of such systems as well as the general criteria for proper and comparable evaluation and validation of different systems in animal models and subsequently in controlled prospective clinical studies. This review summarizes the most interesting systems available in both experimental and clinical settings.

Initial experience with sutureless proximal anastomoses performed with a mechanical connector leading to clampless off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery

BACKGROUND

We report our early experience with the Symmetry Aortic Connector (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN) used for sutureless proximal aortosaphenous vein graft anastomoses without any cross clamp during coronary bypass procedures.

METHODS

Between November 2001 and August 2002, 206 saphenous vein to aorta proximal anastomoses were created in 132 patients using the Symmetry device. All procedures were performed as part of off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery without any aortic clamping. Intraoperative variables and postoperative data were collected and analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

All 206 anastomoses (100%) were successfully completed with the connector. Severe atherosclerotic disease of the aorta was documented in 16 patients (12%). Four anastomoses (2%) required additional suture placement. Predeployment problems occurred with 3 grafts (2.5%) during loading of the connector. Average number of distal bypasses was 3.2 per patient. One patient (0.7%) required reoperation for bleeding from a proximal anastomosis. Six patients (4.5%) had perioperative myocardial infarction documented by electrocardiographic changes. Thirty-day operative mortality was 3% (4 patients). Intraoperative transit time flow measurement was performed in all cases (100%). Postoperative angiography in 43 patients at a median 3 months postoperatively revealed occlusion of 9 of the 81 saphenous vein grafts (11%).

CONCLUSIONS

The initial experience with a proximal saphenous vein graft to aorta anastomosis using the Symmetry connector demonstrates safety and ease of use. There is however some concern with early graft closure. A prospective randomized study is needed to clarify these concerns.

Severe ostial saphenous vein graft disease leading to acute coronary syndromes following proximal aorto-saphenous anastomoses with the symmetry bypass connector device

The Symmetry Bypass Connector (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, Minnesota) is a nitinol, star-shaped device that was designed to facilitate placement of sutureless aorto-saphenous anastomoses during off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Although the device is approved for clinical use in Europe and the U.S., its short- and long-term safety and efficacy are not established. We report on 5 of 121 patients undergoing CABG who presented with an acute coronary syndrome two to five months following placement of this device. In each patient, all saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) placed (n = 11) with the device were totally occluded (n = 6) or compromised by ostial stenoses (n = 5). Treatment consisted of repeat CABG in one patient and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in four patients with cutting balloon atherotomy and stenting. Following PCI, two of four patients presented again within two months with near-occlusive ostial restenosis in all stents placed. Intracoronary ultrasound showed severe neointimal hyperplasia, but only at the proximal interface of the device and stent. One patient was treated with brachytherapy in two SVGs but had a recurrence four months later and was treated with drug-eluting stents in both restenotic segments. Recalcitrant neointimal hyperplasia is postulated to be involved in the pathogenesis of anastomotic device stenosis, possibly similar to in-stent restenosis. Prospective randomized clinical trials are needed to assess the clinical safety and efficacy of this device. Pending such studies, consideration should be given in limiting its use to cases of unacceptably high risk of stroke during aortic cross-clamping. Dual antiplatelet agents, evaluation for ischemia, and close follow-up are warranted in patients that have already received the device.

Early ostial saphenous vein graft stenosis associated with the use of Symmetry sutureless aortic proximal anastomosis device: Successful percutaneous revascularization

A recent advance in technology permits the creation of sutureless proximal aortic anastomosis during coronary artery bypass graft surgery. This new tool has significant potential benefit by minimizing aortic manipulation with subsequent reduction in neuroembolization. Implantation of a nitinol-based proximal aortic connector (Symmetry) has a potential to elicit intimal hyperplastic reaction analogous to restenosis after coronary stent placement. We report cases of early vein graft stenosis in association with the use of the Symmetry device. Three patients suffered from severe ostial stenosis within 6 months of bypass surgery with symptomatic presentation. Of these three patients, two underwent successful percutaneous revascularization. Fluoroscopic star-shaped appearance of the metallic Symmetry allows device recognition during angiography. We review current data regarding graft patency with the use of Symmetry device and discuss technical issues to address specific problems during percutaneous revascularization.

Evaluation of a novel sutureless anastomotic connector: From endothelial function to mid-term clinical and angiographic follow-up

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the effect of the St Jude Medical sutureless anastomotic connector on endothelium-dependent and -independent saphenous vein graft relaxation, as well as on clinical outcomes and graft patency in patients.

METHODS

Human saphenous vein grafts were assigned to control or connector groups (loaded for 1 or 5 minutes; n = 18). Isometric dose-response curves to endothelium-dependent and -independent (sodium nitroprusside) vasodilators were constructed in saphenous vein grafts precontracted with phenylephrine. Thrombin-mediated vasorelaxation, an early determinant of saphenous vein graft failure, was also evaluated. Percent maximum relaxation was compared between groups. Patients in whom the St Jude Medical connector was employed underwent clinical follow-up, stress tests, and angiography 6 to 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

A23187-induced endothelium-mediated relaxation, sodium nitroprusside-induced endothelium-independent relaxation, and thrombin-mediated vasorelaxation did not differ between control and connector saphenous vein grafts at either time point studied. Twenty-seven patients received St Jude Medical connectors. There was no hospital mortality; patients were followed for 679 +/- 241 days. There was 1 late death; the connector saphenous vein graft was patent at postmortem. All connector saphenous vein grafts were patent at follow-up angiography. Four grafts had stenoses (30%-60%), without symptoms or requirement for intervention. All hand-sewn saphenous vein grafts were also patent.

CONCLUSIONS

The St Jude Medical connector does not impair endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation. In patients, patency of the connector saphenous vein grafts 6 to 12 months postoperatively was 100% but 22% of grafts had non-flow-limiting stenoses at or near the connector. Further long-term studies are required to confirm the safety of the St Jude Medical connector with regards to endothelial function and restenosis.

CorLink™ sutureless aortic anastomotic device: results of an animal study

BACKGROUND

The CorLink Automated Anastomotic Device (AD) was developed to create a sutureless vein-to-aorta anastomosis without the need to clamp the aorta. This study examined the effectiveness and safety of this device in an animal model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-seven vein-to-aorta anastomoses using the AD and 27 control hand-sutured anastomoses were constructed in 28 sheep. The distal part of these grafts were connected either to the main pulmonary artery (40 AD, 20 control), or to the sheep's brachiocephalic trunk (7 AD, 7 control). Procedural details focusing on deployment, leakage, and early patency rates were examined. Sheep were sacrificed after periods ranging from 1 to 180 days. Specimens were examined grossly and histologically.

RESULTS

All but three attempts to construct an anastomosis were successful (2 AD, 1 control). All anastomoses were patent immediately after their construction. There was no difference between control and AD anastomoses in respect to flow rates at the end of operation and before sacrifice. No metal breaks were detected. Fourteen of the 47 AD anastomoses and 6 of the control anastomoses (29.8% versus 22.2% P = ns) were occluded at autopsy. Histological findings characteristic of the healing process, were evenly distributed between AD and control anastomoses in both models. Intimal thickening was found in a notable number of anastomoses, but without any significant difference between the AD and control sutured (44.7% versus 40.7% P = ns).

CONCLUSIONS

The AD proved safe and effective for the construction of proximal vein-to-aorta anastomoses as compared to control hand-sutured anastomoses.

Technique of using the St. Jude aortic connector with the radial artery

We present a technique for the use of St. Jude Aortic Connector System with the radial artery. This technique will allow surgeons, who prefer the radial artery to the vein, to use this approach whenever feasible.

Aortic connector for coronary revascularization in a patient with Takayasu's disease

Takayasu's disease affects the aorta and its major branches including coronary arteries, some of which may require coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However, calcification of the aorta affected by Takayasu's disease often makes proximal anastomosis of a vein graft very difficult. In addition, since the major branches of the aortic arch are also frequently affected by it, the internal mammary arteries are unsuitable for use in CABG. We report a 60-year-old woman with stenosis of the left main coronary artery and heavy aortic calcification caused by Takayasu's disease whose severe angina was successfully relieved by off-pump CABG using mechanical aortic connectors for proximal vein graft anastomoses.

Initial experience with proximal anastomoses performed with a mechanical connector

BACKGROUND

The Symmetry Bypass System Aortic Connector (St Jude Medical, Inc) is a novel device for the construction of sutureless proximal anastomoses. The connector allows attachment of saphenous vein grafts to the aorta without requiring aortic clamping. We report our initial clinical experience with this device.

METHODS

In a 2-month period from May to July 2001, a total of 139 consecutive proximal anastomoses were performed in 67 patients using the connector. All procedures were performed on a beating heart without cardiopulmonary bypass or any aortic clamping. Intraoperative variables and postoperative results were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 139 consecutive proximal anastomoses 138 (99.3%) were successfully completed with the device. One anastomosis required suture revision because of misdeployment. Six anastomoses (4.3%) required an additional suture for leak. Predeployment problems included connector loading/preparation malfunction in 10 grafts (7.2%), five because of human error and five technical failure. There was no operative mortality, perioperative myocardial infarction, or stroke. Vessels bypassed included the circumflex system (n = 59), right coronary artery and branches (n = 48), diagonal branch (n = 26), and left anterior descending coronary artery (n = 6). At a mean follow-up of 7 months, survival was 94.1% and survival free of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) was 88.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Initial clinical experience with a sutureless proximal saphenous vein graft to aorta anastomosis performed with a mechanical connector demonstrates safety, reliability, and ease of use. Surmounting a brief learning curve improves the subtleties of device loading and deployment. Further benefits will be determined in an ongoing randomized study.

Pitfalls and key lessons with the symmetry proximal anastomotic device in coronary artery bypass surgery

BACKGROUND

Increasing practice of less-invasive coronary artery bypass surgery has generated a revival of automated methods to facilitate the creation of vascular connections during coronary artery bypass grafting procedures.

METHODS

We have reviewed our clinical experience with 107 patients who received at least one proximal Symmetry aortic connector from St. Jude Medical Anastomotic Technology Group (St. Paul, MN) to connect a saphenous vein graft to the ascending aorta, in whom the minimal follow-up is 6 months. Seventy-five patients were part of an observational study, and 32 patients were enrolled in a prospective randomized study to compare the anastomotic device with the conventional suture technique. Key lessons and pitfalls observed during loading and deployment as well angiographic findings are presented.

RESULTS

Hospital mortality was 0.9% (1/107); a 76-year-old woman suffered from cerebral complications and died after combined coronary artery bypass grafting and aortic valve replacement. Two connectors had to be removed because of leakage and one because of incomplete deployment. The residual 104 grafts connected to the ascending aorta were patent at the end of the operation (mean flow, 72 +/- 29 mL/min). Fourteen patients from the prospective study have received 6 months of angiographic assessment so far. Forty-two grafts have been evaluated: all IMA grafts (n = 14) are patent. Four radial artery grafts have been studied: three are patent and one is occluded. Twenty-four vein grafts have been assessed: 11 were hand-sewn and 13 were connected to the aorta with the proximal connector system. Patency rate is not different between the two techniques, but there is an incidence of 38% (5/13) stenosis in the proximal vein graft segment in those patients with a proximal connector. No proximal hand-sewn anastomosis shows any significant stenosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of proximal devices allows ultrafast connection of a bypass graft to the aorta. The handling of this device is simple, manipulations on the ascending aorta are minimized, and hemostasis is perfect. However, because stenoses have been observed in the vein graft close to the connector site, mid- and long-term patency rates have to be assessed in large prospective trials.

Graft occlusion after deployment of the Symmetry Bypass System

Recently the Symmetry Bypass System (SJM, St. Paul, MN) became available. Now the system is frequently applied for vein-graft to aorta anastomoses in off-pump coronary artery bypass operations. This report describes a complication associated with the use of the Symmetry Bypass System (SJM) in a patient undergoing a standard off-pump coronary artery bypass procedure. A novel imaging system (SPY, Novadaq, Toronto, Canada) was applied for intraoperative assessment of graft function, and this system immediately diagnosed the occlusion of the proximal mechanical anastomosis caused by a mobile atheromatous aortic plaque.

Non-suture methods of vascular anastomosis

BACKGROUND

The main aim of performing a vascular anastomosis is to achieve maximal patency rates. An important factor to achieve that goal is to minimize damage to the vessel walls. Sutures inevitably induce vascular wall damage, which influences the healing of the anastomosis. Over time, several alternatives to sutures have become available.

METHODS

A Medline literature search was performed to locate English, German and French language articles pertinent to non-suture methods of vascular anastomosis. Manual cross-referencing was also performed and many historical articles were included.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The non-suture techniques can be categorized into five groups based on the materials used: rings, clips, adhesives, stents and laser welding. With all these techniques a faster and less traumatic anastomosis can be made compared with sutures. However, each device is associated with technique-related complications. As a consequence, suturing continues to be the standard approach. The disadvantages of the non-suture techniques include: rigidity and a non-compliant anastomosis with rings; toxicity, leakage and aneurysm formation with adhesives; early occlusion with stents; cost, reduced strength in larger-sized vessels and demand for surgical skills with laser welding. Further refinement is needed before widespread adoption of these techniques can occur. Clips, however, may be particularly promising but long-term evaluation is required.

Future technology for off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB)

Over the past 5 years, many coronary artery surgeons have embraced technology and advanced the field of beating heart surgery to the point where off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) is becoming a mature procedure. Enabling technologies are now available for all stages of the procedure, including cardiac positioning, coronary artery stabilization, coronary artery visualization, and performance of the proximal and distal anastomoses. Despite these successes, only a minority of cardiac surgeons performs this procedure routinely. Proponents of OPCAB and the medical device industry will need to continue to develop new technologies to make OPCAB less technically challenging and more widely accepted. Progress towards routine single-vessel off-pump totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass has been slow. Translating the benefits of multivessel OPCAB to an endoscopic setting remains a formidable challenge that will require further technologic breakthroughs.

Assessment of an aortosaphenous vein graft anastomotic device in coronary surgery: clinical experience and early angiographic results

BACKGROUND

Until now technologic evolution in coronary bypass surgery has focused on extracorporeal circulation, on operation without extracorporeal circulation, and on the exposure of the operative site. Recently a one-shot anastomotic device for the proximal anastomosis in coronary surgery was developed. We investigated whether the use of the aortic connector system (ACS) could facilitate the creation of aortosaphenous vein graft anastomoses in myocardial revascularization.

METHODS

From November 2000, 40 ACS devices were used in 36 consecutive patients (mean age 70.7 +/- 8.9 years); 12 patients (33.3%) underwent surgery on pump and 24 patients (66.6%) off pump; 50 distal anastomoses were performed. In all cases the connection with the ascending aorta was created before the distal anastomoses because of the necessity to slide the saphenous vein graft (SVG) over the vein transfer sheath. Intraoperative graft function was tested measuring blood flow by Doppler analysis. Postoperative evaluation of the anastomotic patency was carried out by early angiography in 34 patients (94.7%) but was excluded in 5 patients (5.3%) with extensive extracardiac vascular occlusive disease.

RESULTS

Of 38 AC (95%) evaluated, 36 (94.7%) functioned properly. The end-to-side proximal anastomosis without aortic clamping is instantaneous, the quality of anastomoses was highly rated, no additional stitches were required, and all coronary arteries could be reached. Intraoperative quantity flow was measured by Doppler analysis and all but one showed good flow. Early postoperative angiography demonstrated good patency of the grafts in all cases but 2 (5.3%). At 1-year follow-up, 1 patient died of stroke; all other patients remained free of symptoms and no reoperation was required.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of ACS makes end-to-side anastomosis rapid, effective, and reproducible while eliminating aortic cross clamping; it opens a new era in beating or nonbeating coronary surgery. Long-term results are mandatory to confirm our favorable preliminary results.

Two generations of the St. Jude Medical ATG coronary connector systems for coronary artery anastomoses in coronary artery bypass grafting

BACKGROUND

In the past, coronary anastomoses have been performed using running and, occasionally, interrupted non-resorbable sutures. Recently, special interest has developed in mechanical anastomotic devices to facilitate minimal invasive techniques or limited access surgery. The experience with two series of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) using the St. Jude Medical ATG coronary connector systems (investigational stainless steel device, not yet commercially available) for vein-to-coronary artery anastomoses is reported here.

METHODS

Between November 2000 and April 2002, we evaluated two generations of distal coronary connector systems in 19 patients who were scheduled for multivessel CABG. One vein graft-to-coronary artery anastomosis per patient was performed with a stainless steel mechanical connector, in an ongoing investigational study. Although these two generations of the St. Jude Medical ATG coronary connectors have the same underlying construction, somewhat cumbersome loading of the first-generation system led to simplification of the second-generation system, which is currently evaluated.

RESULTS

With the first generation of distal connector, hemostasis was instantaneous in all cases, and all anastomoses were patent at the end of the procedure. However, retrograde flow to the native coronary artery was restricted in 1 patient. The connector was removed, and the anastomosis was performed with a running suture at the same site. Three-month angiography or magnetic resonance imaging angiography was available in 11 patients with 10 patent connector grafts. With the second-generation connectors one of five had to be removed because of leakage, and the anastomosis could be sutured at the same site. The other four connector anastomoses were patent and hemostatic at the end of the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

The St. Jude Medical ATG coronary connector system is an effective device for sutureless vein graft to coronary artery anastomoses in CABG. The second-generation system presents a further development eliminating some drawbacks of the first generation such as cumbersome, time-consuming loading as well as suitability for smaller coronary arteries. These connectors allow construction of geometrically round anastomoses and theoretically may also be suitable for sequential anastomoses. After tremendous research and development efforts, an optimized mechanical connection system for small vessel anastomoses has been introduced into clinical investigation. This represents a major step in the era of sutureless vascular connections in cardiac surgery.

Angiographic results after the use of a sutureless aortic connector for proximal vein graft anastomoses

The sutureless aortic connector system was recently developed to create anastomoses between the aorta and saphenous vein grafts for coronary artery bypass grafting. Ten consecutive patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting were studied; in each patient one proximal anastomosis was performed using the aortic connector and another was sutured in the conventional manner to serve as the patient's own control. One graft in the sutured group had a significant stenosis and one of the grafts in which the aortic connector was used, was occluded. In this limited study the use of the sutureless connector system for proximal anastomosis shows satisfactory early graft patency (90%).