Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgery (CABG, pronounced 'cabbage') creates new routes for blood to flow around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, restoring adequate blood supply to the heart muscle. Healthy blood vessels taken from the chest wall (internal mammary artery), leg (saphenous vein), or arm (radial artery) are used as bypass conduits. CABG is recommended when multiple arteries are blocked or when the main artery of the left heart (left main disease) is involved. At Iswarya Hospital, CABG is performed by our experienced Cardiothoracic Surgery team.
How Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) is performed
- 1
General anaesthesia is given and a breathing tube is placed.
- 2
The chest is opened through a midline incision (sternotomy).
- 3
Graft vessels are harvested — the internal mammary artery and/or leg vein.
- 4
The patient is connected to a cardiopulmonary bypass (heart-lung) machine.
- 5
The heart is temporarily stopped and cooled.
- 6
Bypass grafts are sewn in place, connecting the aorta to the coronary arteries beyond the blockage.
- 7
The heart is restarted, the bypass machine is disconnected, and the chest is closed.
Benefits of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
- ✓Long-lasting relief from angina in the vast majority of patients
- ✓Significant improvement in survival for triple-vessel and left main disease
- ✓Reduces risk of future heart attacks
- ✓Internal mammary artery grafts last 20+ years
- ✓Often the preferred option over angioplasty for complex multi-vessel disease
Preparing for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
- Stop smoking at least 4–6 weeks before surgery.
- Complete pre-operative investigations: coronary angiogram, echocardiogram, lung function, blood tests.
- Discuss and stop blood thinners as directed (aspirin is usually continued).
- Physiotherapy pre-operatively teaches breathing exercises that are crucial post-operatively.
- Arrange for extended home support — recovery takes 6–12 weeks.
Risks and side effects of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
- Stroke — risk is less than 2% with modern techniques
- Wound infection of the sternotomy or graft harvest site
- Atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm) in the first few days post-operatively
- Memory and concentration changes ('pump head') — usually temporary
- Blood transfusion requirement
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
Recovery after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
- Breathing exercises and early mobilisation are started in the ICU the day after surgery.
- Sternotomy — avoid lifting anything over 5 kg for 12 weeks; the breastbone takes 3 months to heal.
- Leg wound from vein harvest: keep elevated and watch for swelling or discharge.
- Attend cardiac rehabilitation — supervised exercise programme significantly improves outcomes.
- Take all prescribed medications: aspirin, statin, beta-blocker, ACE inhibitor.
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) FAQs
How long will the bypass grafts last?
Internal mammary artery grafts have a patency rate of over 90% at 10 years. Vein grafts have a 50–60% patency at 10 years. Overall, most patients do very well for 15–20 years.
Is bypass surgery or angioplasty better for me?
Your cardiologist and cardiac surgeon will review your coronary angiogram together and recommend the most appropriate option based on the number and location of blockages.
When can I drive after bypass surgery?
Typically 6–8 weeks after surgery, once the sternum has healed and you are off strong pain medications. Your surgeon will confirm clearance at a follow-up.
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) at Iswarya Hospital
Complete spectrum of cardiac services including non-invasive cardiology, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, cardiac surgery, and cardiac rehabilitation. Emergency angioplasty available 24×7.
Cardiology specialists for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
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ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.