The Impact of COVID-19 on Graft Vasculopathy and Postoperative Thromboembolism in CABG Patients: A Prospective Controlled Study.

Abstract

It is known that COVID-19 patients may experience endothelial cell inflammation, apoptosis, dysfunction, and systemic coagulation disorders. In CABG operations, graft patency plays a crucial role in survival and morbidity. Thrombosis and endothelial cell inflammation in grafts can pose challenges for CABG candidates with a history of COVID-19. This study aimed to evaluate the vasculitic effects of a history of COVID-19 among CABG patients. A total of 94 consecutive patients, including 34 with a history of COVID-19 and 60 without, who were scheduled for CABG at our clinic, were included in the study after informed consent was obtained. Patients with a history of COVID-19 underwent surgery at least 4 weeks after the recovery of infection. Thromboembolic events were monitored throughout the hospital stay, and vascular grafts obtained during surgery were pathologically evaluated for signs of vasculitis and inflammation. All COVID-19 (n = 34) cases were mild. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between the groups regarding vein thrombosis/thrombophlebitis (p = 0.626). Additionally, pathological evaluation showed no signs of vasculitis or inflammation. There were also no significant differences in postoperative mortality and morbidity between the two groups (p > 0.05). Based on our findings, undergoing CABG surgery after a four-week recovery period appears to be safe for patients with a history of mild COVID-19, at least in terms of early postoperative vascular outcomes.