LIMA
Pronunciation: LEE-mah
Also written as: LIMA — left internal mammary artery
Left internal mammary artery; preferred arterial conduit for bypassing the left anterior descending coronary artery.
Full Definition
The left internal mammary artery (also called left internal thoracic artery) is the gold standard arterial conduit for coronary artery bypass grafting, particularly for revascularizing the left anterior descending coronary artery. LIMA grafts demonstrate excellent long-term patency rates exceeding 95% at 10 years due to size matching with coronary arteries and resistance to atherosclerosis. The vessel is typically harvested as a pedicled graft, maintaining its origin from the left subclavian artery while dividing its distal attachments. LIMA-to-LAD grafting significantly improves long-term survival and reduces need for repeat revascularization compared to venous conduits.
Usage
Usage note: May also be called LITA (left internal thoracic artery). Distinguish from RIMA (right internal mammary artery).
In Context
- "The LIMA was harvested as a pedicled graft and anastomosed to the LAD." — Operative report
- "LIMA patency remained excellent at five-year angiographic follow-up." — Research study