MIDCAB (Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass)
MIDCAB is a type of minimally invasive heart surgery used to treat coronary artery disease, particularly when a blockage occurs in the left anterior descending artery (LAD)—a major blood vessel supplying blood to the heart muscle.
Unlike traditional bypass surgery, MIDCAB does not require opening the breastbone (sternotomy). Instead, the surgeon makes a small incision between the ribs to access the heart. This technique allows a coronary artery bypass to be performed through a much smaller opening, offering a faster recovery with less pain and scarring.
How Does It Work?
- A small incision is made on the left side of the chest, usually between the ribs.
- The internal mammary artery, often used as a graft, is redirected to bypass the blocked coronary artery.
The surgery is typically performed on a beating heart, without the use of a heart-lung bypass machine.
Why Might You Need It?
Your doctor may recommend MIDCAB if:
- You have a single or limited coronary artery blockage, especially in the LAD.
- You are at higher risk for traditional open-heart surgery.
You prefer a less invasive option with shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.
What Are the Benefits?
- Smaller incision and minimal scarring
- Less pain after surgery
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster return to normal activities
- Lower risk of infection
What Does It Treat?
MIDCAB is primarily used to treat:
- Severe narrowing or blockage of the LAD artery
Selected cases of multivessel coronary artery disease, often combined with stenting (hybrid procedures)