Question:

What determines if you are a candidate for the minimally invasive bypass surgery?

Submitted by Martha Jane from Shreveport, Louisiana on 04/21/2014

Answer:
by Ross M. Reul, MD

A person’s coronary anatomy (i.e., location of blockages in the coronary arteries) is the primary criterion for considering one’s suitability for minimally invasive surgery. This approach has a cosmetic emphasis and is frequently sought. Over the long-term, however, the conventional approach to revascularization (bypass) offers a better outcome.