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If you’re wondering about heart bypass surgery – whether your heart doctor has mentioned it as a possibility or you’re simply curious – you’re not alone. With nearly 400,000 procedures performed annually in the United States, heart bypass surgery is the most common major cardiac operation. But what exactly is it, and why is it so widely performed?
In this brief article brough to you by the licensed cardiologists at Capitol Cardiology Associates, we explore the basics of heart bypass surgery in a way that’s easy to understand. If you’d rather consult with a healthcare professional one-on-one, then contact Capitol Cardiology Associates to schedule an appointment today.
Also known as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), heart bypass surgery is a procedure designed to improve blood flow to the heart. This operation is typically recommended for people with severe coronary artery disease – a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle are narrowed or blocked due.
During the surgery, a surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel (often from your leg, arm, or chest) and uses it to create a detour, or "bypass," around the blocked artery. This new path allows blood to once again flow freely to the heart.
Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, and heart bypass surgery has been a game-changer. The procedure has been around since the 1960s and has evolved significantly over the decades. For many patients, bypass surgery can be life-saving as it’s known for significantly improving quality of life and reducing the risk of heart attacks.
We’re delighted to say that heart bypass surgery has a high success rate. According to the American Heart Association, the procedure has a survival rate of about 97-98% in most cases. Many patients experience immediate relief from symptoms like chest pain and find they can return to activities they once enjoyed.
However, success depends on several factors. These include the patient’s overall health, the severity of their coronary artery disease, and their commitment to lifestyle changes after surgery. Quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are crucial.
Like any major surgery, heart bypass surgery comes with risks. While complications are relatively rare, they can include:
It’s important to discuss these risks with your doctor. At Capitol Cardiology Associates, our healthcare professionals help you weigh the benefits against the potential downsides based on your individual health profile.
Recovery from heart bypass surgery takes time, but most people are back on their feet within a few weeks. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:
You’ll likely spend 3-7 days in the hospital after surgery. The first day or two will be in the intensive care unit for close monitoring. You’ll have some discomfort (especially around the incision sites), but medications will help manage the pain.
You’ll be encouraged to start moving as soon as possible, and most people can return to light activities within 4-6 weeks. With that said, full recovery can take several months.
You’ll receive guidance on diet, exercise, and medications to support your heart health moving forward, but regular check-ups with your experienced cardiologist are essential to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Whether you’re worried about symptoms, are looking for chest pain treatment, or just want to consult with a licensed and experienced cardiologist, the seasoned professionals at Capitol Cardiology Associates are here to help.
Call or message Capitol Cardiology Associates to get in touch with a member of our team today. We’re happy to schedule a convenient appointment for as soon as possible.