Overview
In coronary artery bypass grafting, a surgeon uses a blood vessel taken from the chest, leg or arm to bypass a blocked or narrowed coronary artery. This improves blood flow to the heart muscle. Some operations are done on a beating heart, without a heart-lung machine.
Why it is done
- Severe narrowing in several coronary arteries
- Narrowing of the main left coronary artery
- Angina that is not controlled by medicines or angioplasty
- Coronary artery disease in some people with diabetes or a weak heart
Before the surgery
You will have tests such as blood tests, an ECG, echocardiography and coronary angiography. Your team will explain the operation, which medicines to stop and how to prepare, including stopping smoking.
During the surgery
The operation is done under general anaesthesia and usually takes several hours. The surgeon attaches the grafts above and below the blocked sections of the arteries.
After the surgery
Patients are monitored in intensive care before moving to a ward, and the hospital stay is usually about a week. Full recovery takes around 6 to 12 weeks. Cardiac rehabilitation, medicines and lifestyle changes help keep the grafts working.
Risks
Possible risks include bleeding, infection, irregular heart rhythm, kidney problems, stroke, and problems with memory or concentration, which are usually temporary.
At KIH
KIH's cardiac surgery team performs coronary bypass and beating-heart operations, supported by intensive-care, coronary-care and cardiac rehabilitation services.
This information is for general education. Your doctor will explain whether this treatment is suitable for you, and its benefits and risks. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
