Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery

Coronary artery bypass graft  (CABG) surgery is also commonly called heart bypass or open heart surgery. It is generally done either to reduce symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD), such as angina, or to help prevent a heart attack in the future. During CABG surgery, the surgeon creates a bypass (detour) which allows blood to flow past blockages in a coronary artery. To accomplish a bypass, surgeons use a graft (a blood vessel from the leg or chest). With the graft in place, blood can flow freely to the heart muscle, bypassing the blocked or narrowed section of artery.

CABG surgeries are performed by a team of medical professionals lead by a highly qualified cardiothoracic surgeon. The team includes assistant surgeons, cardiac surgical nurses, and other personnel with specialized training. Bypass surgery is often indicated in people with disease of the left main coronary artery or severe blockages in at least two major coronary arteries.

Coronary Artery Disease

The inside walls of arteries are normally smooth and flexible, allowing blood to flow through them easily. But over the years, the inside of an artery's wall may become plugged with stenoses, also known as plaques (fatty deposits). These stenoses may reduce the blood flow in the arteries enough to cause angina (pain or discomfort in the chest, arm neck or jaw) or myocardial infarction (heart attack), which is caused by a blood clot forming in the narrow portion of the artery sealing the passageway.

Patients preparing to undergo CABG surgery may need to do the following:

• If you take aspirin, you may need to stop taking it a week or two before your scheduled surgery. Aspirin may cause excessive bleeding during surgery. Ask your doctor.
• If you smoke, stop at least two weeks prior to surgery. This will help clear your lungs and improve blood flow to your heart.
• Make arrangements for someone to drive you to and from the hospital.

The two main goals of coronary artery bypass graft surgery are to relieve symptoms of angina and to prolong life.

The effect of bypass on relieving symptoms is often significant. Most bypass patients become symptom-free, or have fewer symptoms. Many patients remain totally free of symptoms for years.

Recovery time for CABG surgery is usually six to eight weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery, healing ability, and general strength and stamina.

For More Information Contact:

Southern Illinois Heart Institute
211 South Third Street, Belleville, Il 62220
Tel: 1-800-676-SIHI (7444)
Internet: info@sihi.org