Heart disease is among the most common causes of death worldwide. There are many treatments that are available, Coronary Revascularization is a key component in addressing coronary arterial disease (CAD) — an issue in which the arteries that carry circulation to heart are restricted or blockage. Understanding of what is hybrid coronary revascularization surgery.

In the past, patients had to opt for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) or angioplasty using stenting. Now, thanks to advances in medicine, there’s a new technique that mixes two of the most effective methods -the – Hybrid Coronary Revascularization Surgery (HCR).

Let’s find out what this new procedure is and how it can benefit patients.

What is Hybrid Coronary Revascularization Surgery?

Hybrid Coronary Revascularization (HCR) is an minimally invasive multi-modality heart procedure which combines:

minimally invasive coronary bypass grafting (CABG) for the left anterior descending (LAD) artery, as well as
PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) (PCI) or the stenting procedure to treat other blocked arteries.

Instead of traditional open-heart procedure, HCR offers a method that is less invasive which still offers the long-term advantages of surgical grafting while allowing for a faster recovery time of angioplasty.

Why is HCR Performed?

HCR is often suggested for patients who

Are you suffering from multivessel coronary arterinaire disease
It requires an LAD bypass and is the best treatment for this condition by surgery
Additionally, you may require stenting in arteries outside of PCI that could be treated using PCI
Are you at risk for open-heart surgery with a full scope.
You want faster recovery and less trauma

Combining two techniques doctors can develop an personalized treatment which maximizes effectiveness and security.

How is Hybrid Coronary Revascularization Done?

HCR usually takes place typically in the surgical suite that is a hybrid which includes the capacity of both an operating theater as well as a heart catheterization lab.

Step-by-step procedure:

minimally invasive CABG:
A tiny incision is made usually between the ribs to allow access to the heart. The surgeon makes use of a section that is part of Left Internal Mammary Artery (LIMA) to bypass the blockage of the LAD artery — a crucial artery that supplies a substantial part of the heart muscle.
PCI and Stenting:
After the surgical bypass the patient is transferred (or in some instances, stays inside the hybrid system) to angioplasty and the placement of Stents in arteries that are narrowed.
Sequent or Same Day Method:
Depending on the condition of the patient the two procedures can be performed in the same appointment and on days that are different.

Benefits of Hybrid Coronary Revascularization

HCR has several advantages over traditional bypass surgery, or stenting that is performed on its own:

Less Invasive:

There is no need for a full sternotomy (chest opening)
Less incisions, and less loss of blood

Faster Recovery:

Shorter hospital stay (3-5 days)
Rapider return to daily activities

Lower Risk:

Chances of infection are reduced and other complications
Lower risk of stroke as compared to open-heart surgery

Long-Term Effectiveness:

A durable bypass is available for the LAD coronary
Minimally-invasive stents for critical vessels

Ideal for High-Risk Patients:

Particularly beneficial for patients who are elderly or those who have comorbidities

Who is a Candidate for HCR?

Candidates to consider include:

Patients suffering from an isolated blockage in the LAD and diseases in the other vessels
Patients suffering from multiple vessel disease who aren’t good candidates for CABG with a full stent.
Patients who are looking for alternatives to less invasive treatments

Your cardiologist or surgeon will conduct a thorough examination that includes:

Angiography
Echocardiogram
General health assessments and risk assessment

Success Rate and Outcomes

Hybrid Coronary Revascularization has produced outstanding results in the areas of:

Patient satisfaction
Long-term durability (especially in the case of LAD grafts)
Reduction of issues

A number of cardiac centers offer HCR as an choice for patients who are looking for an alternative to conventional heart surgeries.

Conclusion

Hybrid Coronary Revascularization Surgery represents the future of cardiac care. It blends the long-term durability that surgical grafting offers along with the minimally invasive characteristics of stenting to provide an specific solution for coronary artery problems.

If you or someone close to you is diagnosed with coronary arterial disease speak with a heart doctor regarding whether HCR is the right choice.