Evaluation of blood flow in saphenous vein grafts during coronary surgery gives valuable information about myocardial perfusion and long-term by- pass patency as well. However, electronic flowmeter availability is a limiting factor because of costs and maintenance. A system was developed consisting of a connection to the arterial line, with a Y tube; one branch of the Y tube is connected to a manometer and the other one to the vein graft. Since the connection to the arterial line has a know diameter, pressure drop in the system is proportional to the flow in the graft. With previous calibration, a chart was constructed that allows instantaneous evaluation of the flow. Another advantage of the system is the selective perfusion of the area to be treated before the conclusion of the proximal anastomosis. This system is being used in our Service; it is efficient and practical.
flowmeter, hidro-dynamic; myocardial revascularization