Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG)

Overview

Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) is a procedure to improve blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. It is used to treat conditions such as heart attack, silent myocardial ischemia, and angina pectoris, commonly caused by atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.

Alternate Name for CABG Surgery

Also known as heart bypass surgery.

CABG Procedure Type

Surgical.

Preparation for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

Medical Tests

Blood tests, electrocardiogram (EKG), chest X-ray, and echocardiogram are conducted to assess the patient’s condition.

Diet, Physiotherapy, and Medications

A tailored diet plan and pulmonary physiotherapy may be recommended to optimize lung function before surgery.
Adjustments to medications may be advised.

Supplements

Regular supplements that could increase surgical risks might need to be stopped.

Hospital Admission

Based on test results, admission may occur a day before surgery.

How Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Is Performed

The procedure involves:

Making an incision in the chest to access the heart, or using minimally invasive techniques with smaller incisions and specialized equipment.
Employing a heart-lung machine (in most cases) to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation during the surgery. Alternatively, off-pump CABG may be performed without the machine.
Harvesting a healthy blood vessel (usually from the chest or leg) and grafting it to bypass the blocked artery. The graft provides a new pathway for blood flow.

Follow-Up After CABG Surgery

Post-Surgical Care

Patients may experience incision site pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing.
Initial monitoring in an ICU for around two days is common before transferring to a general ward.
Incision wounds require proper care and should be kept dry.

Recovery Guidelines

Avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, for 4–6 weeks.
Bed rest is crucial for recovery.

Risks of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

Bleeding during or after the surgery.
Infection if the wound is not adequately cleaned and cared for.
Breathing difficulties if physiotherapy instructions are not followed.

Recovery After CABG Surgery

Recovery time varies. Pain management and antiplatelet medications are usually prescribed. Adjustments to medications may be needed for patients with diabetes or other conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the success rate of CABG surgery?
The success rate is generally high, depending on factors such as the patient’s health, the surgeon’s expertise, and adherence to post-operative care.

2. Will lifestyle changes be necessary after the surgery?
Yes, a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, smoking cessation, and adherence to prescribed medications, is essential.

3. Will chest pain persist after the surgery?
CABG surgery typically reduces or eliminates chest pain, though individual experiences may vary.

4. How long will medications be required?
Many patients need long-term medications, including blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and antiplatelet agents.

5. Is cardiac rehabilitation necessary after CABG surgery?
Yes, cardiac rehabilitation is highly recommended. It includes supervised exercise, lifestyle counseling, and education to promote recovery and improve outcomes.

6. How often should follow-ups be scheduled after surgery?
Follow-ups with a cardiologist are essential, starting with frequent visits in the initial months and gradually becoming less frequent as recovery progresses.

7. How should I prepare for CABG surgery?
Preparation involves following medical advice, adjusting medications, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and addressing any concerns with healthcare providers.

CABG surgery is an effective treatment for coronary artery disease. Proper preparation, post-operative care, and lifestyle modifications are key to a successful recovery and long-term heart health.

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