A cadaveric study: the relationship between sternum and internal thoracic artery

Abstract

Introduction: Internal thoracic artery is an artery which frequently used in coronary bypass operations. Morphological features such as the location, length, and separation point of the branches are important crucialy. Materials and Methods:. The measurements were made in 11 thorax dissections and morphological data of ITA were obtained and photographed At each sternebra level, a midpoint was determined. The line created by combining these points was called the paramedian line. The distance between the artery and this line in the 2-5 intercostal space was measured. The distance of the artery and the lateral margin of sternum from the was measured at 2-5 intercostal spaces. The length of artery and the branch-ing point was recorded also. Results: The length of the right internal thoracic artery (between 2-5. intercostal space) is 117.07 mm. The left one is 118.63 mm. Maximum length for the right and left ITA 135 mm and 135.5 mm, respectively. The distance between paramedian line and bifurcatio of right ITA 31.06 mm and left ITA 32.32 mm. Maximum distance between paramedian line and bifurcatio of right ITA is 42.45 mm and the left one is 53.8 mm. Discussion: ITA is commonly used artery for coronary revascularization. When left anterior descending artery is anastomo-sed with ITA, survival rate has been found 10% for ten years. However, there are some disadvantages. As a result of pleurotomy, it can/could be seen several complications: parenchymal trauma, pleural effusion, atelectasis and pulmonary complication. Its is crucial to preservation of pleural integrity during dissection to reach ITA. Thus, it is supplied respiratory mechanisms and mini-mized lung injury. Conclusion: Internal thoracic artery has a great importance in coronary revascularization. When the risk of complications in coronary bypass operations is considered, the length of this artery and its distance with sternum should be clearly deter-mined. It is vital in the postoperative period and prolonging the life span. © 2021 Japan University of Health Sciences & Japan International Cultural Exchange Foundation.