Heart Bypass Surgery: CABG Procedure & Health Outcomes

A heart bypass, also known as coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, is a procedure used to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, which can reduce blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle. The goal of the procedure is to redirect blood flow around the blocked or narrowed section of the coronary artery, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of a heart attack.

Heart bypass surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 3 to 6 hours to complete. During the procedure, a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body, usually the chest, legs, or arms, is attached to the blocked or narrowed coronary artery, bypassing the blockage and restoring normal blood flow to the heart. In some cases, multiple bypasses may be needed to treat multiple blockages.

Heart bypass surgery is a complex procedure that carries some risk, including bleeding, infection, and complications from anesthesia. However, with advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care, the success rates for heart bypass surgery are high, and most patients experience significant improvement in their heart function and quality of life after the procedure. It is important to discuss the benefits, risks, and alternatives of heart bypass surgery with your doctor and to have a comprehensive evaluation before deciding to undergo the procedure.