Coronary artery disease is a widespread condition on our island, affecting a large percentage of the population and often requiring bypass surgery. The procedure involves using autologous vessels, such as the left and right internal mammary arteries, veins, and occasionally the left radial artery, to bypass narrowed coronary arteries, aiming to restore normal blood flow to the heart.

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For each patient, the appropriate treatment method is selected, which may or may not include the use of extracorporeal circulation, depending on the needs and condition of the heart.​

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In the procedure with extracorporeal circulation (on-pump), the heart is temporarily stopped to allow the surgeons to work on a still heart, while blood circulation and oxygenation of the body are supported by an extracorporeal circulation machine.

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On the other hand, without extracorporeal circulation (off-pump), the surgery is performed while the heart continues to function normally, without interruption, reducing risks and allowing for more immediate recovery.

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In selected patients, coronary artery bypass surgery may also be performed using the Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass (MIDCAB) technique. Unlike conventional bypass surgery performed through a median sternotomy, MIDCAB is carried out through a small incision on the left side of the chest without dividing the sternum. This minimally invasive approach may offer advantages such as reduced surgical trauma, less post-operative pain, faster mobilization, and a quicker return to daily activities. As MIDCAB is not suitable for all patients, each case is carefully evaluated by our cardiac surgery team to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.