Here’s a comprehensive guide on Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), including its types, symptoms, risk factors, causes, prevention, treatment, and procedures.
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is a surgical procedure used to treat severe coronary artery disease (CAD). It involves rerouting blood flow around blocked arteries using a healthy blood vessel (graft) taken from another part of the body, such as the leg, arm, or chest. This restores proper blood flow to the heart, reducing chest pain and the risk of a heart attack.
The most common type, where the chest is opened, and the heart is temporarily stopped during surgery.
Performed without stopping the heart, reducing complications.
A less invasive option using small incisions instead of a full chest opening.
A highly advanced procedure using robotic arms for precision surgery.
A combination of minimally invasive surgery and angioplasty with stenting.
CABG is recommended if a person experiences:
especially during activity
Although CABG is a life-saving procedure, it carries some risks, including:
Although CABG is a life-saving procedure, it carries some risks, including:
CABG is needed when arteries supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked due to:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – Fatty plaque buildup in the heart arteries.
Atherosclerosis – Hardening and narrowing of arteries over time.
Heart attack (Myocardial Infarction) – Severe blockage causing damage to heart muscles.
Severe angina (chronic chest pain) – Poor blood flow leading to recurrent pain.
Failure of other treatments like angioplasty and stent placement.
You can lower your risk of heart disease and bypass surgery by:
(low in saturated fats, processed foods, and sugar)
(at least 30 minutes per day)
Before recommending CABG, doctors may try:
Blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and beta-blockers.
Diet, exercise, weight management, and stress reduction.
A less invasive method to open blocked arteries.
Graft Selection – A healthy artery or vein is taken from the chest, leg, or arm.
Heart-Lung Bypass Machine (in traditional CABG) – Temporarily takes over heart function.
Graft Placement – The surgeon connects the graft to reroute blood flow.
Suturing and Recovery – The chest is closed, and post-surgery monitoring begins.
Hospital Stay – Around 5–7 days, with ICU monitoring.
Recovery Time – Full recovery takes 6–12 weeks.
Cardiac Rehabilitation – Exercise and lifestyle programs to improve heart health.
