During isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), there is active investigation into the long-term efficacy of saphenous vein vs. radial artery grafts as secondary conduits. In this commentary, we explore the findings discussed in the manuscript by Brown and Eshwat et al.: "Outcomes of Radial Artery versus Saphenous Vein as a Second Conduit after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting". We delve into how the results of this retrospective cohort study concord with prior trial data and reflect on the reasons for possible differences with respect to long-term freedom from major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events.