Understanding Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Signs You Need a Heart Bypass

Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is a life-saving procedure for individuals suffering from severe coronary artery disease (CAD). This surgical intervention restores proper blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked arteries using a CABG graft, ensuring that oxygen-rich blood reaches the heart muscle efficiently.

CABG Graft Types

There are different types of CABG grafts, including:

Arterial grafts: Taken from the chest or forearm, known for long-term durability.
Venous grafts: Sourced from the legs, commonly used, but may have a higher chance of narrowing over time.

Discussing these options with one of our cardiothoracic surgeons at BTMC helps ensure the best approach for each patient’s unique needs.

Who Is Likely To Need CABG?

A CABG bypass is required when the coronary arteries are obstructed, limiting blood flow to the heart. Several risk factors contribute to this condition, including:

High cholesterol levels
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Diabetes
Smoking
Sedentary lifestyle
Genetic predisposition

The above risk factors manifest as symptoms like:

Chest discomfort (angina)
Shortness of breath
Fatigue during minor activities
Previous heart attack or poor stress test results

Early diagnosis and medical intervention can help delay the need for CABG bypass by managing heart disease symptoms through medication and lifestyle changes.

Understanding the CABG Procedure and Its Benefits

The CABG operation typically involves the following steps:

The patient is placed under general anaesthesia.
Surgeons harvest a CABG graft, usually from the leg, arm or chest.
The graft is connected to redirect blood around blocked arteries via a bypass.
The heart's blood flow is restored, reducing strain on the cardiovascular system.

Our cardiothoracic surgeons at BTMC ensure that the CABG procedure is performed with precision to maximise long-term success.

CABG surgery offers several benefits, primarily focusing on restoring blood flow to the heart and improving heart function. It can significantly reduce symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, and in some cases, even improve survival rates, especially for those with advanced CAD or heart failure. Additionally, CABG can lower the risk of future heart attacks and death related to heart disease.

Post-CABG Complications to Be Aware Of

While CABG surgery is highly effective, it does carry risks. Patients should be made aware of post-CABG complications, including:

Infection at the surgical site
Blood clots leading to stroke or heart attack
Kidney dysfunction
Irregular heartbeat
Graft failure over time

These post-CABG complications may lead to blockages to the main blood vessel supplying blood to the heart's left ventricle, eventually leading to left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD).

Therefore, patients are encouraged to follow their post-surgical care plans to reduce risks and improve heart health.

Post-CABG Surgery Care and Management

After undergoing CABG surgery, patients must adhere to a structured post-CABG rehabilitation plan to ensure smooth recovery. Postoperative care includes:

CABG medical monitoring for complications such as infection or irregular heart rhythms.
Regular follow-ups with our cardiothoracic surgeons.
Lifestyle modifications, including heart-healthy diets and light exercise after 4–6 weeks post-op integral for lasting results.
Patients may also resume driving 6-8 weeks post-op, depending on the recovery status
Medications to prevent blood clots and manage cholesterol levels.

At BTMC, our cardiothoracic surgeons will be at every step of the way to provide CABG care and ongoing lifestyle improvements, key to recovery and long-term heart health. By staying informed about the CABG procedure, risks, and management strategies, patients can optimise their cardiac health and enhance their quality of life. Get in touch with us for more info!