4 Min Read
When the arteries supplying the heart have multiple blockages as a result of cholesterol and calcium deposition, CABG (bypass surgery) is the preferred mode of treatment. Without removing or cutting any clogged arteries, a new path is created on a beating heart for the blood to reach the heart muscles, which otherwise had been working continuously with very little blood supply. This is done to maintain appropriate blood circulation, which is impeded by some blockages in the arteries of the heart, and to restore the heart's smooth operation.
This is done to:
-
Bring relief from angina.
-
Protect from subsequent myocardial infarction/ heart failure/ sudden cardiac death.
-
Increase LV function.
-
Increase the patient’s performance index.
People are afraid of bypass surgery because of many myths associated with the procedure. In order to get the finest treatment or bypass surgery done, visit the best cardiothoracic surgery hospital in Gurgaon.
Synopsis
Understanding Bypass Surgery: Facts vs. Myths
In this article, we will try to provide correct information about the bypass surgery procedure and bust the myths. These myths include:
Bypass Surgery Risks
Any surgery where you have to go under the knife comes with its own risks. But to label a bypass surgery outright risky and life-threatening is not justified. There was a time when a bypass surgery was considered risky, but with technological advancements and improved surgical and anaesthesia techniques, it is now a low-risk procedure. In expert hands, the success rate is more than 99 per cent.
Sternotomy is a mutilating procedure and involves a lot of post-operative pain and complications
Sternotomy provides the surgeon with very neat and safe access to the patient’s heart. It guarantees easy access to all the coronaries and hence ensures the best postoperative outcomes. A midline sternotomy with a good closure technique gives an uncomplicated and pain-free post-surgical experience, and we at Manipal Hospital Gurugram mobilise the patient on postoperative day 2. Our experience with sternotomy wound healing has been very encouraging, as after 4 days we do not advise any wound dressing. We also do surgeries with minimally invasive techniques, which spare the central chest bone (sternum) and access to the heart is gained from the left side of the chest in between the ribs. By this technique, we are able to send the patient home in under 3 days, promising a very early resumption of work and routine activity.
Stents are safer than bypass surgery
Stents may look tempting because of the lesser degree of invasiveness involved with the procedure, but placing stents is not advisable in every case. Bypass surgery is the preferred mode of treatment when multiple vessels are blocked, left main disease, ostial LAD, Diffuse/calcified coronary disease, poor heart function, Diabetics, and Chronic kidney disease. CABG has proved to be the best method for providing long-term relief from symptoms and promises the least chances of re-intervention and re-hospitalisation.
The grafts or conduits used in bypass surgery can develop blockages
At Manipal Hospital Gurugram, we are dedicated to providing patients with the best possible grafting technique, like total arterial (LIMA-RIMA Y) bypass grafting. We harvest veins by using a minimally invasive technique. The choice of the graft may vary from patient to patient. Patency rates of arterial grafts reach around 25-30 years.
Bypass surgery makes you weak, and you can no longer do your work like before
This is a myth. We at Manipal Hospital Gurugram promote early weaning from the ventilator (within a few hours after surgery), early mobilisation, and discharge within 4 days after surgery. The initial four to six weeks are important for complete recovery from CABG. Once this time is over, one can actually lead an absolutely normal life. CABG is done to increase life expectancy and help one live a healthy life. Most people return to their normal life within three months of the surgery.
More Reads: Difference between Bypass Surgery and Angioplasty
What to Expect Before, During, and Post Bypass Surgery Procedure
Before Bypass Surgery
-
Preoperative Assessment: You’ll undergo a series of tests, such as ECG, echocardiogram, chest X-ray, blood work, and coronary angiography to evaluate heart function and blockages.
-
Medical Preparation: Doctors review your medications, manage any underlying conditions (like diabetes or high blood pressure), and may advise you to stop certain drugs before surgery.
-
Fasting & Admission: You’ll be admitted a day before or on the day of surgery. Fasting is required for several hours before the procedure.
-
Consent & Counselling: The surgeon explains the procedure, and you’ll be asked to sign a consent form. Counselling is provided to prepare you mentally and emotionally.
During Bypass Surgery
-
Anaesthesia: You’ll be placed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you’re unconscious and pain-free during the operation.
-
Incision & Access: A cut is made down the centre of the chest to access the heart. The breastbone (sternum) is temporarily separated.
-
Heart-Lung Machine (if used): The heart is temporarily stopped, and a machine takes over its function during surgery.
-
Grafting: Healthy blood vessels (usually from the leg, arm, or chest) are used to create new routes (bypasses) for blood to flow around the blocked arteries.
-
Closing Up: After grafting, the heart is restarted (if stopped), the chest is closed, and you are moved to the ICU for monitoring.
After Bypass Surgery
-
ICU Recovery: You’ll spend 1–2 days in the intensive care unit for close monitoring of heart function, breathing, and vital signs.
-
Hospital Stay: You’ll stay in the hospital for about 5–7 days. Pain management, wound care, and early mobilisation are prioritised.
-
Rehabilitation: Cardiac rehabilitation begins soon after and continues post-discharge. This includes physical therapy, diet changes, and lifestyle counselling.
-
Full Recovery: Most patients recover fully in 6–12 weeks. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor heart health and medication response.
Life Expectancy After Bypass Surgery
Life expectancy after bypass surgery (CABG) can be significantly improved, especially when combined with healthy lifestyle changes and proper medical follow-up. Many patients live for 10–20 years or more after the procedure, depending on factors like age, overall health, the extent of heart disease, and how well they manage risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, and cholesterol. Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, medication adherence, and routine cardiac checkups play a crucial role in long-term survival. With successful surgery and commitment to lifestyle changes, many patients enjoy a longer, healthier, and more active life after bypass surgery.
Conclusion
At Manipal Hospitals, we have the best cardiothoracic vascular surgeons in Gurgaon who can guide you well about the disease, treatment options, and post-procedure care. Read more about heart care in our blogs. Get the most reliable information about heart diseases, their treatment, and more from our cardiac specialists. Listen to our podcast and gather all the latest developments happening in the medical world. Connect with us to book an appointment or to learn more about the health check-up packages.
FAQ's
Open-heart surgery is a broad term that includes any surgery where the chest is opened and surgery is performed on the heart. Bypass surgery, specifically coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a type of open-heart surgery used to restore blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked coronary arteries. So, while all bypass surgeries are open-heart surgeries, not all open-heart surgeries are bypass surgeries.
Recovery from bypass surgery typically takes 6 to 12 weeks. Most patients stay in the hospital for about 5–7 days post-surgery. Full recovery includes wound healing, gradual return to daily activities, and possibly a cardiac rehabilitation program. Individual recovery time can vary depending on age, overall health, and whether complications occur.
Bypass surgery may be avoided in some patients through lifestyle changes, medications, or less invasive procedures like angioplasty with stenting, depending on the severity and location of the blockages. However, in cases of multiple or severe blockages, especially in diabetic or high-risk patients, bypass surgery often remains the most effective and life-saving treatment.
Double bypass surgery refers to a coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedure in which two blocked coronary arteries are bypassed using blood vessels taken from another part of the body. It helps restore adequate blood flow to the heart muscle and reduce symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, improving heart function and longevity.
To book a consultation for CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting), visit the Manipal Hospital’s website or contact the cardiology department directly via phone. Bring previous medical reports and test results for an effective and informed consultation with our cardiac specialist in Gurgaon.
Share this article on:
.webp "Leukemia Symptoms, Causes and treatments")
