ACB

Definition & Etymology

ACB stands for Aortocoronary Bypass, a surgical procedure and a specific type of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) that restores blood flow to the heart muscle. The procedure involves creating a new conduit around a blocked or significantly narrowed coronary artery. This is achieved by harvesting a blood vessel graft, typically a saphenous vein from the leg, and suturing it to connect the aorta to the coronary artery distal to the point of occlusion. (from Greek aortē, ‘the great artery’, and Latin coronarius, ‘of a crown’).

Clinical Significance

The clinical role of ACB is to revascularize ischemic myocardium in severe coronary artery disease (CAD). It aims to relieve angina pectoris, improve heart function, and enhance survival in high-risk patients, such as those with left main coronary artery stenosis or complex multi-vessel disease. By restoring adequate oxygenated blood flow, ACB significantly reduces the risk of a future myocardial infarction and improves the patient’s functional capacity and quality of life. It serves as a primary surgical option when percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is not feasible or has failed.

Related Conditions

ACB is a surgical treatment for advanced Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and its underlying cause, Atherosclerosis. It is performed to manage complications of myocardial ischemia, including severe or unstable angina pectoris, and to prevent myocardial infarction (heart attack). Patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy or complex multi-vessel disease confirmed via coronary angiography are primary candidates. The procedure is a major alternative to less invasive treatments like Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) with stenting.

Key Takeaways

• Definition: ACB is a surgical procedure that reroutes blood around blocked coronary arteries using a harvested blood vessel graft, typically a vein.
• Purpose: Its primary goal is to alleviate chest pain (angina) and prevent heart attacks in patients with severe coronary artery disease.
• Indication: It is typically indicated for patients with complex, multi-vessel coronary blockages where stenting (PCI) is not a suitable option.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.