❤️ Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) is a surgical procedure used to treat severe coronary artery disease (CAD), where plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) severely narrows or blocks the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. The surgery creates a new route (a bypass) for blood to flow around the blockage.
The Procedure
Graft Harvesting: A healthy blood vessel (graft) is taken from another part of the patient's body—most commonly the internal mammary artery in the chest, or a vein from the leg or artery from the arm.
Bypass Creation: The heart-lung machine is typically used to maintain blood flow while the heart is temporarily stopped ("on-pump" CABG), though "off-pump" (beating heart) surgery is also an option. The surgeon attaches the graft to the blocked coronary artery, connecting it above and below the narrowed area.
Restoration of Flow: The graft acts as a new channel, bypassing the blockage and restoring healthy blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle.
Recovery
Hospital Stay: Typically 5 to 7 days, including 1-2 days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Full Recovery: Most people achieve a full recovery within 12 weeks.
Key Aftercare: Lifestyle changes are critical for long-term success, including quitting smoking, adopting a heart-healthy diet, and participating in a Cardiac Rehabilitation program.