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Home > Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)

Overview

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), often called heart bypass surgery, is a surgical procedure to restore normal blood flow to the heart by creating a new route (bypass) around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. Surgeons use a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body (such as the chest, arm, or leg) to bypass the blockage. CABG improves blood supply to the heart, relieves chest pain (angina), reduces the risk of heart attack, and improves long-term survival in patients with severe coronary artery disease.

What is coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)?

CABG is a surgery that improves blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked arteries using grafts from the patient’s own body. It helps restore an oxygen-rich blood supply to the heart muscle, especially in patients with multiple or severe blockages.

Why is CABG done?

CABG is recommended for patients with:

  • Severe narrowing or blockage of multiple coronary arteries
  • Left main coronary artery disease
  • Severe angina not relieved by medications or stenting
  • Failed angioplasty or stenting procedures

It helps prevent future heart attacks and improves quality of life.

How is CABG surgery performed?
  • The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
  • Surgeons take a healthy blood vessel (graft) from the chest (internal mammary artery), leg (saphenous vein), or arm (radial artery).
  • The graft is attached to bypass the blocked coronary artery.
  • The surgery may be done with the help of a heart-lung machine (on-pump CABG) or while the heart is still beating (off-pump CABG or beating-heart surgery).
Is bypass surgery safe?

CABG is one of the most commonly performed major heart surgeries with high success rates. However, as with any major surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, irregular heartbeat, stroke, kidney problems, or heart attack. Outcomes are generally very good, especially when performed by experienced cardiac surgeons.

What is recovery like after CABG?

Most patients stay in the hospital for 5–7 days. Initial recovery may take 6–8 weeks, during which patients gradually regain strength. Cardiac rehabilitation, a structured exercise and lifestyle program, is strongly recommended to ensure the best long-term results.

How long does a bypass graft last?

The longevity of grafts depends on the type of vessel used and lifestyle after surgery. Artery grafts (like the internal mammary artery) often last 15–20 years or longer, while vein grafts may last 8–10 years. Healthy living habits and regular follow-up are crucial for long-term success.

What lifestyle changes are needed after CABG?

Patients are advised to:

  • Quit smoking
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Manage blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol
  • Take prescribed medications (blood thinners, statins, etc.)

These steps are vital to prevent new blockages.

How does CABG compare to angioplasty and stenting?
  • CABG is usually preferred for patients with multiple or complex blockages, diabetes, or left main artery disease.
  • Angioplasty with stenting is less invasive but may not be as effective for extensive disease.
  • Both procedures improve blood flow, but CABG often offers longer-lasting results in high-risk patients.
Call to Action

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with severe coronary artery disease, our Cardiac Surgery Team at Baby Memorial Hospitals specializes in advanced coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for safe and effective treatment.

📞 Call us or book an Appointment Online to consult with our heart specialists.

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