Patency rates and the role of newer grafts in coronary artery bypass grafting.

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) was one of major surgical advances of the 20th century and it has proven to be one of the most effective and long-lasting therapies in the treatment of ischemic heart disease. Despite its success, the long-term outcome of coronary bypass surgery is strongly influenced by the fate of the vascular conduits used. We seek to review the emerging role and patency rates of newer arterial grafts in comparison with the traditional saphenous vein grafts.