In 1972, the National Heart and Lung Advisory Council identified these questions as topics of high priority, and the National Heart and Lung Institute established an Ad Hoc Policy Advisory Board on Coronary Artery Surgery to assist it in developing a program of research activities. In its report, the Board noted a 'critical need for objective data on the long- and short-term effects of coronary artery surgery.' Requests for proposals were issued to carry out the recommendations of the Board.