The aim of the study was to assess the effect of transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMLR) alone and in combination with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) on the angina score (CCS--Canadian Cardiovascular Society class), exercise tolerance and left ventricular function 6 months after the procedures. Sixty two patients were subjected to revascularization, 38 to sole TMLR procedure and 24 to combination CABG and TMLR (CABG/TMLR group). The angina score and exercise stress test together with radionuclide ventriculography were performed before and 6 months after the operation. The angina class and exercise tolerance were similar in both groups preoperatively. After the operation the improvement was seen in both groups with no statistical difference. The left ventricular ejection fraction were 61 +/- 8% and 54 +/- 8% (p < 0.05) before operation and after 6 months respectively. Transmyocardial laser revascularisation alone and in combination with coronary artery bypass grafting may relieve the angina and improve the exercise tolerance. However the left ventricular ejection fraction may drop significantly.