Abstract
Background and Objectives: Use of the radial artery as conduit for coronary artery surgery has increased in recent years. This study reports the effects of Radial artery harvesting on hand muscles power and function and neural sensation in operated patients.
Materials and Methods: Thirty patients, who had the radial artery used for myocardial revascularization were selected and underwent assessment of bilateral hand function with dynamometer for power grip forearm circumference, cyclical exercise fatigue tests. Also we recruited thirthy patients as control group for better comparison (patients with previous CABG, without Radial graft), and all above tests were performed bilaterally for this group.
Then neurologic function was evaluated in distribution of Median, Lateral antebrachial cautaneus (LAC) and superficial radial nerves both electrodiagnostically with sensory nerve Action potential (SNAP) parameters measurment and clinically to pin prick sensation.
Results: 1) There was no significant difference detected between left hands of case and control groups in power grip parameters (P>0.05). But cyclical exercise fatigue test was significantly reduced in left hands of case group compared to control group (P<0.05).
2) SNAP of LAC nerve was absent in 36% at operated side, that was different from unoperated side (24%)(P<0.05). 40% of patients reported hypoesthesia in cutaneus distribution of this nerve.
There was no difference between median and radial nerves SNAP’s at both sides.
Conclusion: Harvesting of Radial artery does not adversely affect subsequent hand function, but may be shows early fatigue signs in prolonged and hard activities.
Mild sensory abnormalities in distribution of some peripheral nerves especially LAC was detected. These symptoms caused by trauma or devascularization. But because of overlap in sensory area, prominent sensory complication is not seen.