Minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) surgery is a specialized technique used to treat coronary artery disease through smaller incisions compared to traditional open-heart surgery. This procedure involves bypassing blocked or narrowed coronary arteries using a small incision, typically made between the ribs or in the chest wall, without the need for a sternotomy (opening of the breastbone). During MIDCAB, a graft, often taken from the patient's own internal mammary artery, is used to bypass the obstructed coronary artery, thereby improving blood flow to the heart muscle. MIDCAB is generally indicated for patients with significant coronary artery blockages that can be addressed through this less invasive approach. The conditions causing these blockages include atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up in the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and potentially causing chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms of coronary artery disease. Symptoms that may necessitate MIDCAB include persistent chest pain or discomfort, especially during physical activity, along with episodes of shortness of breath and decreased exercise tolerance. These symptoms arise because the narrowed arteries limit the amount of oxygen-rich blood reaching the heart muscle, causing it to work harder and leading to reduced function over time.
The goal of MIDCAB is to provide relief from these symptoms while offering a less traumatic surgical option compared to traditional methods. It typically results in shorter recovery times, less postoperative pain, and minimal scarring, making it an attractive option for patients with suitable coronary artery disease.
