Flow capacity of gastroepiploic artery versus vein grafts for intermediate coronary artery stenosis.

Background: Native flow competition is a significant factor affecting bypass graft patency. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of competitive flow on conduit flow dynamics in the gastroepiploic artery (GEA) and the saphenous vein graft (SVG).

Methods: In 51 patents, 23 GEAs (in-situ grafts) and 28 SVGs (aortocoronary grafts) were examined using a Doppler-tipped guidewire during coronary angiography after coronary artery bypass.