Optimal treatment of unligated side branch of internal mammary artery: Coil, amplatzer vascular plug or graft stent? A case report and literature review

Coronary artery steal syndromes may occur following coronary artery bypass grafting as a result of the presence of large side-branches arising from the internal mammary artery (IMA). Coil embolization, Amplatzer Vascular Plug and graft stents are all used for the treatment of such syndromes. The literature contains limited data on the long-term success of these treatment methods. There is no large series regarding occluded IMA side branches causing coronary steal phenomena, and data on long-term followup of this treatment method is also very limited. This report presented two cases and their treatment, and reviewed the advantages and disadvantages of treatment methods and the factors that affect successful treatment.