The spelling of the medical term "Coronary Internal Mammary Artery Anastomosis" might seem intimidating, but breaking it down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can help. The word begins with the /k/ sound, followed by the /ɔː/ sound in "coronary." "Internal" is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/ and the /n/ and /l/ consonants. "Mammary" features the /æ/ vowel sound and the /m/ and /r/ consonants. Finally, "Artery Anastomosis" includes the /ɑː/ sound, the /t/ and /r/ consonants, and the /i/ and /əʊ/ sounds in "anastomosis."
The term "Coronary Internal Mammary Artery Anastomosis" refers to a surgical procedure commonly used in cardiac surgery, specifically in the treatment of coronary artery disease. This procedure involves creating a connecting pathway or graft between the internal mammary artery (IMA) and one or more of the coronary arteries.
The internal mammary artery is a major blood vessel found in the chest, running alongside the sternum. It is selected for use during the procedure because it has been observed to have a reliable and long-term patency rate, meaning it remains open and allows blood flow to the heart muscle. The internal mammary artery is carefully dissected, preserving its integrity and length, and then joined to the diseased coronary artery downstream from the blockage using sutures or with the assistance of special connectors.
The purpose of the coronary internal mammary artery anastomosis is to bypass a blocked or narrowed coronary artery, restoring blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle beyond the obstruction. By creating a new pathway for blood, surgeons aim to relieve symptoms of chest pain, improve heart function, and potentially reduce the risk of future heart attacks.
This surgical technique has demonstrated significant benefits and is considered one of the most effective ways to treat coronary artery disease. It is commonly performed during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures and has been shown to improve long-term survival rates and reduce the need for repeat interventions compared to other grafting techniques.