Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Restoring Blood Flow to Your Heart

Coronary artery bypass grafting, commonly called CABG or heart bypass surgery, is a life-saving procedure that creates a new pathway for blood to flow around a blocked artery. The goal is to restore vital blood flow to the heart.

When your arteries are blocked, your heart is not receiving blood like it usually does, which can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and even a heart attack. If an artery is blocked, CABG creates a new route to ensure oxygen-rich blood reaches the heart muscle.

When is Bypass Surgery Needed?

Blocked arteries can lead to both emergency situations, such as a heart attack requiring immediate medical attention, and non-emergency scenarios where cardiologists detect blockages during routine evaluations. In emergencies, immediate action is required to restore blood flow and prevent heart muscle damage.

In non-emergency cases, cardiologists use diagnostic tests, such as stress tests or coronary angiograms, to identify blockages early and plan treatments like elective CABG to prevent future complications.

Recognizing these distinctions helps ensure timely and effective treatment, whether proactive or reactive.

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery is recommended when other treatments, such as medication or less invasive procedures like angioplasty, are not effective. Common reasons for CABG include:

  • Multiple blockages in the coronary arteries.
  • Severe narrowing of the left main coronary artery supplies most of the heart’s blood.
  • Persistent chest pain despite other treatments.
  • Weak heart muscle due to coronary artery disease.
  • Diabetes or other health conditions that increase the complexity of treatment.

Recognizing the symptoms of blocked arteries, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, can be the first step toward seeking life-saving care.

How Traditional Bypass Surgery is Performed

Traditionally, bypass surgery is an open-heart surgery that involves:

  • Accessing the Heart: A surgeon makes an incision in the chest, typically cutting through the sternum, and temporarily stops the heart with the help of a heart-lung machine.
  • Creating the Bypass: Healthy blood vessels from another part of your body (such as the leg, chest, or arm) create a new pathway for blood to flow around the blockage.
  • Restoring Blood Flow: The grafts are connected to the coronary arteries, allowing blood to bypass the blocked areas and restore circulation to the heart.

This tried-and-true method ensures that even complex cases can be treated effectively.

 

Recovery After CABG

Recovery from CABG typically involves:

  • Hospital Stay: Most patients stay for several days, including time in the intensive care unit.
  • Physical Activity: Light activities can be resumed after a few weeks, and full recovery takes 6-12 weeks, depending on your overall health.
  • Cardiac Rehabilitation: A structured program that includes exercise, education, and support to help you recover and maintain heart health.

Our team provides personalized guidance to ensure you’re on the best path to recovery.

Why Choose CHRISTUS Health for CABG?

At CHRISTUS Health, you’ll receive exceptional care from a team of expert cardiothoracic surgeons and specialists. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Experienced Surgeons: Our surgeons are highly skilled in performing traditional CABG, even for complex cases.
  • Advanced Facilities: State-of-the-art technology and comprehensive heart care services.
  • Personalized Care: Treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and health goals.
  • Comprehensive Support: From diagnosis to recovery, our team is with you every step of the way.

Our Team