A novel technique for pulmonary endarterectomy in the presence of patent coronary artery bypass grafts

Pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is the definitive surgical treatment for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, with excellent short- and long-term results. PEA following previous coronary artery bypass graft surgery carries a risk of damage to patent grafts, as well as the risk of inadequate myocardial protection, especially when a patent pedicled internal thoracic artery graft is present. We report a technique where PEA may be safely and successfully accomplished ensuring, adequate clearance of bilateral pulmonary thromboembolic disease via a right pulmonary arteriotomy, avoiding the patent bypass grafts overlying the pulmonary trunk, while ensuring adequate myocardial protection.