LIMA
Also written as: LIMA — left internal mammary artery
Left internal mammary artery, a preferred conduit for coronary artery bypass grafting, particularly to the left anterior descending artery.
Full Definition
The left internal mammary artery (LIMA), also known as the left internal thoracic artery, is considered the gold standard conduit for coronary artery bypass surgery. The LIMA is typically grafted to the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery due to excellent long-term patency rates, with 10-year patency exceeding 95%. This arterial conduit provides superior durability compared to saphenous vein grafts and is associated with improved long-term survival and reduced need for repeat revascularization. The LIMA is harvested as a pedicled graft, maintaining its blood supply, or as a free graft. Its use is considered essential in most coronary bypass operations unless contraindicated.
Usage
Usage note: May also be abbreviated as LITA (left internal thoracic artery) in some institutions.
In Context
- "The patient underwent three-vessel CABG with LIMA to LAD and SVG to the circumflex and RCA." — operative report
- "Angiography demonstrated patent LIMA-LAD graft at five-year follow-up." — catheterization report