Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
Book AppointmentAbout Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery is one of the most common and life-saving cardiac procedures performed worldwide. It is used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition where the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. CAD is a leading cause of heart attacks and death globally, and CABG restores blood flow to the heart muscle by bypassing the blocked arteries.
This article explains CABG comprehensively — what CAD is, symptoms, causes, risks, prevention, diagnosis, surgical procedure, recovery, complications, and long-term outlook.
Overview
Coronary artery disease occurs when fatty deposits (plaques) build up inside the coronary arteries. This process, called atherosclerosis, reduces blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or heart attack.
CABG surgery creates a new pathway for blood to reach the heart by grafting a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body (leg vein, chest artery, or arm artery
Understanding The Procedure
Symptoms Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
- ⦾ Chest pain or pressure (angina), especially during exertion
- ⦾ Shortness of breath
- ⦾ Fatigue
- ⦾ Palpitations
- ⦾ Dizziness or fainting
- ⦾ Heart attack (severe chest pain, sweating, nausea)
Risks
- ⦾ Infection at surgical site
- ⦾ Bleeding
- ⦾ Stroke or heart attack during surgery
- ⦾ Arrhythmias
- ⦾ Kidney problems
- ⦾ Rare graft failure
Post-Operative Care
- ⦾ Pain management
- ⦾ Breathing exercises
- ⦾ Gradual mobilization
- ⦾ Strict diet and lifestyle changes
- ⦾ Regular follow-up with cardiologist
Long Term Outlook
CABG is highly successful — most patients experience relief from angina and improved quality of life. Grafts last 10–15 years, especially if lifestyle changes are followed. Cardiac rehab and preventive care are essential for long-term success.
CABG is a life-saving surgery for patients with severe coronary artery disease. With modern surgical techniques, anesthesia, and rehabilitation, outcomes are excellent. Patients regain energy, independence, and longevity when they commit to healthy living after surgery.
