Myocardial revascularization at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation—1981

ABSTRACT

The 1981 surgical experience in 2616 consecutive isolated bypass patients is reviewed. Median age of these patients continues to rise, reaching 59 years in 1981 (23% were >65 years and 8% >70 years); 15% were women. Multivessel coronary atherosclerosis occurred in 92% (two-vessel disease in 24% and three-vessel disease in 69%). Left main artery lesions have plateaued at 12% of surgical patients. Abnormal left ventricular contraction was documented in 55%. Operative (hospital) mortality was 0.8%. Major morbidity included perioperative myocardial infarction (principally new Q-waves) in 1.4% and neurologic deficit in 1.7%. Intra-aortic balloon pump usage was 0.9% and 0.8 unit of blood was used per patient; prevalence of internal mammary artery graft usage was 49%; and complete revascularization was achieved in 82%.