[1] MIDCAB gains surgical access to the heart with a smaller incision than other types of CABG.
MIDCAB differs from OPCAB in the type of incision used for the surgery; with traditional CABG and OPCAB a median sternotomy (dividing the breastbone) provides access to the heart; with MIDCAB, the surgeon enters the chest cavity through a mini-thoracotomy (a 2-to-3 inch incision between the ribs).
MIDCAB surgery is no longer reserved for only anteriorly placed single- or double-vessel diseases, because such lesions are usually managed with angioplasty.
The surgery has recently begun to be used in multi-vessel coronary disease.
People with multi-vessel coronary disease, who desire a minimally invasive approach to surgery may be eligible for hybrid bypass.