Noncardiac operations after coronary revascularization.

In 35 patients who had had earlier myocardial revascularization, a total of 44 noncardiac operations under general or spinal anesthesia were carried out. There was one cardiac death and three postoperative complications. Compared with the risk of general anesthesia and noncardiac surgical procedures in patients with coronary artery disease who have not had coronary revascularization, this is a major improvement. We conclude that myocardial revascularization provides significant protection against the risk of cardiac complications and death for patients with ischemic heart disease in whom general anesthesia and noncardiac procedures are needed.