Coronary artery bypass surgery

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG, often pronounced "cabbage") is a surgical procedure that improves blood flow to the heart. Surgeons use CABG to treat people who have severe coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD is a disease in which a waxy substance called plaque (plak) builds up inside the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart.

Contents 1 Procedure 2 Indications 3 Risks 4 Recovery and Rehabilitation 5 Outcomes 6 See also 7 References 8 External links

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Procedure

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a surgical procedure performed to bypass the narrowed or blocked sections of the coronary arteries, thereby restoring blood flow to the heart. This procedure involves the use of a healthy blood vessel, typically harvested from the leg, arm, or chest, to create a new pathway for blood to flow around the obstructed coronary artery.

Indications

CABG is primarily indicated in patients with severe coronary heart disease, particularly those with high-grade stenosis of the left main coronary artery or severe multi-vessel disease. It may also be considered in individuals experiencing angina or heart failure symptoms that are not adequately controlled with medication or less invasive treatment options.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, CABG carries risks, which may include infection, bleeding, arrhythmias, stroke, or myocardial infarction. The risk of complications is higher in certain populations, such as the elderly, those with poor heart function, and those with comorbid conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from CABG surgery involves a stay in the hospital for about a week, followed by several weeks of rest and gradual increase in physical activity at home. Cardiac rehabilitation, a program of exercise and education designed to help patients recover from heart surgery and prevent future cardiac events, is often recommended following CABG.

Outcomes

CABG has been shown to improve symptoms of coronary heart disease, such as angina, and improve survival in certain groups of patients, particularly those with severe disease. However, the benefits of the surgery must be weighed against the risks, and long-term success is dependent on adherence to lifestyle modifications and medical therapy to prevent progression of coronary artery disease.

Follow-Up Care

Post-operative follow-up care for CABG patients often involves regular check-ups with a cardiologist. This typically includes regular monitoring of cardiac function, assessment of wound healing, and adjustments to medical therapy as necessary. Education about heart-healthy lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management, is also a crucial part of follow-up care.

See also

• Coronary artery disease
• Angina
• Cardiac rehabilitation
• Heart failure

External links

Coronary artery bypass surgery Resources
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American Heart Association Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Mayo Clinic Coronary bypass surgery