Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG) is a surgical method performed to improve the flow of blood & oxygen to the heart muscle. The narrowing of the coronary arteries hinders the blood flow through the blood vessels of the heart and can cause a heart attack. The major reason behind the blockage of arteries is the accumulation of fatty substances and cholesterol over a period of time. The surgery helps in re-routing blood to the heart muscles, relieving chest pain and improves function of the heart muscles.

Instructions

Procedure for Coronary Bypass Surgery

During a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG), the blood flow is re-routed around the clogged artery by detaching a long segment of an artery from the chest wall, arms or leg veins. Thereafter, the new artery is grafted to the clogged area of the coronary artery. Through the newly attached channel, blood gets unhindered route to flow to the heart muscles. This procedure is known as Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery. Depending upon the number of blocked coronary arteries, a patient may undergo more than one bypass graft.

FAQ

Is bypass surgery safe for heart patients?

Yes, this procedure has been performed on patients for more than 50 years. These surgeries are serious but safe as well. The patient who has undergone this surgery gets relief from their problems without needing long-term medication.

What are the symptoms of CABG surgery?

The symptoms for CABG depend on various factors such as Left main artery disease, Failed PTCA, narrowing of three coronary arteries, blockage of grafts from previous CABG, and Myocardial Infarction.

Which investigations are required for CABG surgery?

There are many important investigations required before CABG surgery – blood test, ECG, EKG, Echocardiogram, chest X-ray, cardiac catheterization, and angiography. If any patient has a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, then the doctor deals with them first and then proceeds for CABG surgery.