November 14, 2007 - According to Cardica Inc., a provider of automated anastomosis systems for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, a study found that 24 of 25 grafts of internal mammary arteries connected to left anterior descending (LAD) arteries were patent after the specified follow-up period as determined by 64-slice multidetector computed tomography.
Husam H. Balkhy, M.D., chairman of the Department of Cardiac Surgery Wisconsin Heart Hospital, presented data last week at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions meeting in Orlando, FL. The study evaluated the patency of bypass grafts connecting the internal mammary artery (IMA) to the LAD artery using the C-Port xA or Flex A Distal Anastomosis Systems during off-pump, beating heart coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. This was the first time that data has been presented showing patency rates of the C-Port systems attaching the IMA to the LAD, often considered the optimal or ideal connection for coronary revascularization. The study said that 10 grafts were evaluated at 30 or more days, with the remaining 15 grafts assessed at 90 or more days.
According to the manufacturer, this data is important for the adoption of minimally invasive coronary artery bypass procedures, using both robotic, utilizing the Intuitive Surgical da Vinci Surgical System and non-robotic techniques. The IMA is the primary bypass graft used in these procedures and this data further validates the C-Port’s safety and efficacy in creating this bypass.
Cardica’s C-Port systems reportedly enable a compliant anastomosis that can expand and contract with blood flow. The C-Port xA and Flex A systems are designed to deploy staples around the periphery of the anastomosis to help provide leak-proof sealing without the need for additional stitches at either end of the anastomosis; and can be used in either on- or off-pump CABG procedures.
For more information: www.cardica.com