Also known as Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG), a heart bypass surgery is a medical procedure that involves treating blocked or narrowed arteries (coronary artery disease or CAD).
Coronary arteries supply oxygen-rich blood and nutrients to the heart muscles. CAD occurs when there is formation of plaque or fatty material within the walls of the arteries. This causes the arteries to shrink or become narrow and leads to hindrance in blood supply going to the heart muscles.
During the CABG procedure, healthy blood vessels are taken from other parts of the body and used to bypass the blocked artery. The grafts or blood vessels can be taken from veins in legs or arteries in the chest and wrist.
A bypass surgery is recommended by the cardiac specialist depending on the number of arteries blocked.
Single bypass: When only one artery is blocked
Double bypass: When two arteries are blocked
Triple bypass: When three arteries are blocked
Quadruple bypass: When four arteries are blocked
What does the heart bypass surgery procedure involve?
Making an incision: Firstly, an incision is made in the chest to expose the heart. The expert cardiologist can also use minimally invasive surgical techniques or robotic procedures depending on the condition of the heart patient.
Using the cardiopulmonary bypass machine: While the heart is being operated through the incision, a cardiopulmonary bypass machine is used to supply oxygenated blood in the body. In some cases, this is not required.
Grafting: A healthy blood vessel is removed from the leg and used to bypass the blocked artery. The graft is then attached to both ends of the blockage from above and below.
Final procedure: Once the working of bypass is confirmed, the patient is stitched and shifted to ICU for further care.
What are the preparations required for a heart bypass surgery?
You will be explained the details of the surgical procedure and can clear any doubts that you might have with your cardiologist
You will be made to sign a patient consent form.
A thorough physical examination will be conducted to make sure all your health parameters are working fine. For this, you might be required to undergo blood tests or other diagnostic tests.
You will be asked not to drink or eat anything at least 8 hours before the procedure.
Tell your specialist doctor about all the prescription medicines you are already taking for any other health conditions. It is also imperative to specify any allergy.
In case you are taking blood thinners, your doctor might ask you to stop these medications prior to surgery.
The specialist surgeon will also look into whether you have any other cardiac devices already installed.
What to expect post heart bypass surgery?
After the heart bypass surgery, you will be taken to the intensive care unit (ICU) and all your vitals will be closely monitored.
A breathing tube inserted in the throat to assist in breathing will be removed once the effect of anesthesia fades away.
Pain medication will be administered by your doctor depending on the soreness.
You will also be given medication to stabilize your blood pressure, sugar levels as well as control any bleeding issues.
Once you are stable, liquids will be introduced in your diet and later on solids as well.
From the ICU, you will be taken to the post-surgical unit for further care.
Once the doctor feels you are ready to go home, you will be discharged from the hospital and instructions will be provided for the follow-up visits.
Follow the medications and activity restrictions as recommended by your doctor.
How much time will it take to recover from a heart bypass surgery?
You might feel constipated or have difficulty in sleeping post-surgery.
Some inflammation can be felt at the place from where a healthy vein has been taken out.
Your doctor will track your daily progress and accordingly let you know when you can resume your daily activities.
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