Breast necrosis following left internal mammary artery harvest: A case series and a comprehensive review of the literature

Breast necrosis is a rare complication following coronary artery bypass grafting, as the blood supply to the breast is abundant. Internal mammary artery (IMA) harvest has been cited as a risk factor for breast necrosis following cardiac procedures. We retrospectively reviewed 3 cases of breast necrosis following IMA harvest, performed a comprehensive literature review, and noted risk factors. Obesity, macromastia, diabetes, hypertension, and end-stage renal disease were present in all cases. Two of 3 patients had pathology suggestive of calciphylaxis. Despite a rich blood supply, breast necrosis following use of the IMA for cardiac revascularization may occur in a subset of patients. Our review suggests that obese patients with macromastia and end-stage renal disease may be at increased risk for breast necrosis following IMA harvest. As the prevalence of obesity increases, we may see an increase in this previously uncommon complication.