Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least 15 adults that compared OPCAB to CCABG and reported on the incidence of postoperative stroke or myocardial infarction at one month and atrial fibrillation at three months after operation were eligible for inclusion.
In the included trials, the mean age of participants was 63 years and 20% were women. The authors stated that there were no significant differences between participants in the trials in age, diabetes, left ventricular ejection fraction, three vessel disease and number of distal anastomoses. Patients with ejection fraction were not represented in 29 trials.
Two reviewers independently assessed studies for inclusion. Disagreements were resolved by discussion or consultation with a third reviewer.