Off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery: The long and winding road

Abstract

After more than thirty years, a hundred randomized studies and dozens of meta-analyses, there is still controversy on the results and benefits of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. The present review summarizes the most relevant evidence, the relation of outcomes with surgeon's and institution's experience, addresses regional variations in popularity of the technique, and the need for structural training.

Keywords: Coronary artery bypass grafting; Ischemic heart disease; Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.