Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering Commons^™

Clinical Investigation: Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting With Robotic Assistance, H. A. Tabaie, W. P. Graper, Jeffrey A. Reinbolt

Jeffrey A. Reinbolt

Background: The current study reviews clinical feasibility experiences evaluating safety and efficacy of using robotic assistance to create a left internal mammary artery to left anterior descending artery (LIMA-to-LAD) anastomosis. Methods: Between August and November 1999, 9 patients (aged 54-73 years) underwent robotically assisted endoscopic coronary artery bypass grafting (E-CABG) after institutional review board approval and informed consent were obtained. The robotics were transthoracically introduced in the fifth and sixth intercostal spaces. The LIMA-to-LAD anastomoses were endoscopically constructed with robotic assistance, and patency was assessed by flow measurement. Results: Each anastomosis was performed robotically, with-out necessity for intraoperative intervention with …