Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)

at Sterling Hospitals

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at Sterling Hospitals

Schedule Your Appointment Online

Overview of the Condition

What is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?

CAD is a condition where blood vessels supplying the heart become narrow due to fat and cholesterol buildup
This reduces blood flow to the heart muscle
It can cause chest pain and shortness of breath
Complete blockage can lead to a heart attack

Common Symptoms

Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Fatigue

Warning Signs

Severe chest pain spreading to arm/jaw
Sudden sweating or nausea
Difficulty breathing

Treatment Options Before the Procedure

Medications — prevent blood clots and lower cholesterol
Lifestyle changes — balanced diet, exercise, stopping smoking

Procedures

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)
Coronary Angiogram (CAG)

Procedure Overview and Preparation

What is CABG and Why is it Done?

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), or heart bypass surgery, is a procedure that improves blood flow to the heart when heart arteries are blocked. Surgeons use blood vessels from another part of the body to bypass the blocked arteries and restore blood supply to the heart.

What Is the Difference Between Complex CABG and IABP?

Complex CABG is an advanced bypass surgery performed for patients with severe or complicated coronary artery blockages, such as multiple blocked arteries, left main disease, or reduced heart function. It is recommended when restoring blood flow to the heart through surgery offers the best long-term outcome.

IABP (Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump) is a temporary heart-support device used when the heart is unable to pump effectively on its own. It may be recommended in patients with severe heart weakness, cardiogenic shock, ongoing chest pain despite treatment, or those undergoing high-risk cardiac procedures.

In some high-risk cases, both may be used together. An IABP can help stabilize and support the heart before, during, or after a complex CABG. Simply put, complex CABG treats the blocked arteries, while IABP provides temporary support to help the heart function during a critical period.

Preparation guidelines for CABG

Heart scans, stress tests, blood vessel imaging and blood and urine tests are done
Your doctor will advise which medicines to continue or stop
You will need to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure

Step-by-Step

You will be given anaesthesia to keep you asleep during the surgery
The surgeon will open the chest to reach the heart
A healthy blood vessel from another part of the body is used to create a new pathway around the blocked artery
Blood flow to the heart is restored through the new bypass
The chest is then closed with wires and stitches

Time Required

3–6 hours.

Risks, Benefits and Hospital Stay

Risks and Complications

Irregular heartbeat
Bleeding and infection
Some patients may experience confusion
Kidney problems may develop in rare cases

Benefits and Expected Outcomes

CABG is a reliable procedure to restore blood flow to the heart
It is often the best option for multiple or severe artery blockages
CABG may reduce the need for future heart procedures compared to angioplasty

Duration of Hospital Stay

5–7 days.

Recovery, Lifestyle and Follow-up

Recovery and Aftercare

Avoid heavy activities that may strain the heart or surgical wound during recovery
Your doctor will advise when you can drive, return to work, or resume physical activity
Follow a healthy lifestyle to prevent future heart problems
Cardiac rehabilitation can support recovery and improve overall health
Take medicines as prescribed and seek support if you feel anxious or depressed