Intravascular ultrasound analysis of the radial artery for coronary artery bypass grafting.

Background: The radial artery has become a popular conduit for coronary artery bypass surgery. However, limited information has been provided regarding the atherosclerotic nature of this artery, which may affect both the immediate intraoperative difficulties and long-term graft patency.

Methods: We examined intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) images of the radial artery in patients with coronary artery diseases.