A novel preservation medium protecting prostacyclin production and endothelial integrity of the human saphenous vein graft.

Patency rates of coronary artery saphenous vein bypass grafts can be as low as 50% in the first year after surgery. Of these occlusions, 70% can be attributed to mural thrombus formation. Improvements in surgical handling techniques and in preservation media have improved patency rates, as has the introduction of perioperative antiplatelet therapy. The authors describe a novel preservation medium consisting of heparinized blood from the patient, papaverine and dipyridamole. This medium enhances prostacyclin production and maintains endothelial integrity in preserved saphenous vein segments.