LIMA graft
Pronunciation: LEE-mah graft
Internal mammary artery conduit used for coronary artery bypass surgery, typically to the LAD.
Full Definition
The Left Internal Mammary Artery graft represents the gold standard conduit for coronary artery bypass surgery, particularly for revascularization of the left anterior descending artery. LIMA grafts demonstrate superior long-term patency rates compared to saphenous vein grafts, with 10-year patency exceeding 90%. The arterial conduit is typically harvested in a pedicled fashion, maintaining its proximal connection to the subclavian artery while anastomosing the distal end to the target coronary vessel. Angiographic evaluation of LIMA grafts requires specific projection angles and may show characteristic flow patterns different from native coronaries or vein grafts.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from RIMA (right internal mammary artery) in documentation.
In Context
- "The LIMA graft to LAD demonstrated excellent flow with no evidence of anastomotic stenosis." — Post-surgical angiography report
- "Angiographic evaluation revealed patent LIMA graft with competitive flow from the native vessel." — Follow-up catheterization report