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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2000;18:613-616
© 2000 Elsevier Science NL

Case report

Internal thoracic artery as a collateral source to the ischemic lower extremity

Department of Surgery, Kurume University, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume 830-0011, Japan

Received 16 May 2000; received in revised form 18 July 2000; accepted 15 August 2000.

Corresponding author. Tel.: +81-942-35-3311; fax: +81-942-35-8967
e-mail: nobuhiko{at}med.kurume-u.ac.jp

Based on the superior long-term results, internal thoracic artery is widely used for coronary artery bypass grafting. However, the vessel can play an important role as a collateral source to the chronically ischemic lower limbs. We reported two cases who underwent simultaneous revascularization to the myocardium and lower limbs because this particular condition was anticipated. Selective angiography of internal thoracic artery was useful to determine its role before harvesting in our cases. Careful preoperative examinations and choice of surgical approach are required for such patients to avoid serious vascular complications.

Key Words: Coronary artery bypass grafting • Internal thoracic artery • Aortoiliac occlusive disease • Collateral source