What is the most common condition that leads to surgical revascularization?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common condition that leads to surgical revascularization because it involves the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. As CAD progresses, it can result in significant ischemia—reduced blood flow—leading to chest pain (angina) or even myocardial infarction (heart attack). In many cases, when lifestyle modifications and medical therapies are insufficient to manage the symptoms or risks associated with CAD, surgical interventions such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are indicated. These revascularization procedures aim to restore adequate blood flow to the heart muscle, alleviating symptoms and improving overall cardiac function.

While myocardial infarction is a serious outcome of CAD, it is the underlying condition of coronary artery disease that necessitates surgical intervention in a broader context. Angina pectoris is a symptom of CAD, and heart murmurs do not typically require revascularization; instead, they often indicate the presence of other heart conditions that may not directly lead to the need for surgery.