Heart Bypass Surgery (CABG)
Heart Bypass Surgery (CABG)
Taking care of your heart is very important. Heart diseases can be costly for individuals and their families, whether the treatment is minor or involves major surgery.
Factors That Can Affect Heart Bypass Surgery Cost
- Location: Geographical location of the hospital.
- Surgeon’s Fee: Based on the surgeon’s expertise and reputation.
- Type of Surgery: Traditional open-heart vs. minimally invasive techniques.
- Advanced Tools: Use of sophisticated equipment like Transit Time Flow Doppler.
- Additional Tests or Procedures: Pre- or post-operative diagnostics.
What is Heart Bypass Surgery?
Heart bypass surgery, commonly known as Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), addresses blockages in the coronary arteries that can cause heart attacks. The surgeon creates a new path using a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body to bypass the blocked artery.
Symptoms That Indicate the Need for CABG
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Palpitations
- Swelling in hands and feet
- Poor digestion
Types of Heart Bypass Surgery
- Single Bypass: One artery blocked
- Double Bypass: Two arteries blocked
- Triple Bypass: Three arteries blocked
- Quadruple Bypass: Four arteries blocked
Why is It Done?
- Severe narrowing in arteries causing chest pain
- Damage to the left coronary artery
- Main pumping chamber affected
- Failed stent surgeries
- Unsuccessful angioplasty
- Emergency interventions during heart attacks
How is Heart Bypass Surgery Done?
- Pre-surgery diagnostics: blood sugar, blood pressure checks
- Anesthesia administration
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Breathing tube and ventilator setup
- Heart temporarily stopped and blood circulated via heart-lung machine
- Graft attached to bypass blockage
- Multiple blockages may require additional grafts
- Chest closed with wires for healing
Additional Options:
- Off-pump or Beating-heart Surgery: No heart-lung machine used
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Robotic and video-assisted, smaller incisions
After the Surgery
- 2 days in ICU
- Breathing tube removed once stable
- Cardiac rehabilitation programs
- Supervised outpatient care before home care
Risks or Complications
- Internal bleeding
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Chest wound infections
- Kidney issues
- Memory or cognitive issues
- Stroke or heart attack
- Reaction to anesthesia
Patients with emphysema, diabetes, kidney disease, or hypertension have higher risk.
The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What Are the Preventive Measures After CABG?
- Stop alcohol, quit smoking, follow DASH diet
- Exercise, manage stress, practice yoga/meditation
Q2: Who Is a Candidate for CABG?
- Based on symptoms, location, and severity of blockages
Q3: Does Type of Surgery Affect Cost?
- Yes, minimally invasive surgery costs more
Q4: Can I Use Stairs After CABG?
- Yes, especially with minimally invasive procedures, in 2-4 weeks
Q5: Hospital Stay Duration After CABG?
- 2 days in ICU, 5-6 additional days under supervision
Q6: When Can I Take a Long Flight Post-Surgery?
- Wait 4-5 weeks; consult your healthcare team and check airline safety provisions