Coronary artery bypass surgery

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Coronary artery bypass surgery Image 657B-PH

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG, often pronounced "cabbage") is a common surgical procedure used to improve blood flow to the heart. It is primarily indicated for individuals with severe coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease (CHD), in which a waxy substance called plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.

Procedure

CABG is performed by using a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body—commonly the saphenous vein from the leg, the radial artery from the arm, or the internal thoracic artery from the chest wall—to bypass blocked or narrowed segments of the coronary arteries. This newly grafted vessel creates an alternate route for blood to reach the heart muscle, thereby restoring adequate blood supply and oxygenation.

The surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, and the heart may be stopped temporarily using a cardiopulmonary bypass machine, or performed "off-pump" while the heart is still beating.

Indications

CABG is indicated in several clinical scenarios, including:

Risks

Like all major surgeries, CABG carries certain risks and potential complications, including:

The risks are elevated in patients with multiple comorbidities, advanced age, or poor baseline cardiac function.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery after CABG typically involves:

  • 5 to 7 days of hospitalization, including time in an intensive care or cardiac unit
  • Gradual return to daily activities over 6 to 12 weeks
  • Participation in a structured cardiac rehabilitation program, including supervised exercise, dietary counseling, and education about cardiovascular risk reduction

Wound care, medication adherence, and emotional support are important parts of the recovery process.

Outcomes

CABG is highly effective in relieving symptoms of coronary artery disease, especially angina pectoris, and can improve quality of life and longevity in appropriately selected patients. Long-term success depends on:

Follow-Up Care

Post-operative follow-up includes:

See also

External Links



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