Histological comparison of the candidate arteries for bypass grafting of the posterior interventricular artery

This study evaluated five vessels as potential candidates for coronary artery bypass grafting at the posterior interventricular artery (PIVA) blockage site. We used light microscopy and digital image analysis of H&E and Van Gieson’s-stained slides to investigate luminal diameter, arterial wall thickness, and relative muscularity and elasticity of candidate vessels. Results from our sample indicate that the inferior epigastric artery (IEA) may be the preferred graft to the PIVA based on overall similarities in these measurements. Other arteries provided a favorable match based on a single measurement, but the IEA agreed most consistently with the PIVA. When choosing a vessel to bypass blockage at the PIVA, cardiothoracic surgeons should be aware of the many favorable features of the IEA.