Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)

Coronary artery bypass graft (also known as CABG) is a surgery performed on heart. It is necessary if coronary arteries are in bad condition and it is necessary to make them function in a right way.

Basically, operation is performed to CAD, when coronary arteries are too narrow or even blocked. Such situation might cause serious diseases because they restrict the provision of oxygen and nutrients to heart muscle.

When CABG is necessary?

CABG is important to restore normal activity of arteries. When it goes wrong, person can feel bad. Basic symptoms of coronary artery disease might include:

Problems with breath;
Abnormal heart rhythm;
Pain in chest;
Fatigue.

These are basic symptoms, but patient might not feel anything at an early stage, because symptoms are not linear and tend to appear on different stages of disease depending on the health conditions of the person. Consultation with doctor and necessary tests are the best way to prevent CAD.

Types of coronary artery bypass surgery

Your doctor will choose the right way to perform operation needed depending on personal situation. Usually, there are several types of them, such as:

Single/Double/Triple bypass.

The more arteries are in bad condition, the more complex type of surgery is needed.

Another type of classifying operations is the ways they are performed: traditional coronary artery bypass grafting and so-called minimally invasive CABG.

Several risks you might face

As CABG is a type surgery, performed directly on heart, there are important things to know. The most advanced technologies and professional approach can significantly improve the results, however, one should consider several possible complications, such as:

wound infection or bleeding;
chest and other pain;
arrhythmia;
kidney failure.

If you want to know more about possible risks, please consult with your doctor and conduct all the necessary medical observations.

Your risks get higher in case you already have such diseases as:

diabetes/kidney or lung disease.

Also, the risk groups are composed by elderly people (over 70), heavy smokers, and people with additional complications. It is important to have a thorough consultation with doctor and perform all medical tests.

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Getting ready to operation: basic steps

Here are some important steps you need to follow in order to get ready for your surgery. Of course, you will have some appointments before the surgery to carry out necessary medical tests, which include:

blood tests;
coronary angiography;
X-ray of chest;
Electrocardiogram.

There can be other tests. Also, you will get full detailed instructions how to get ready to the operation in your personal case.

Here are some basic rules equal for everyone, getting ready for coronary artery bypass graft.

Rule # 1 — Quit smoking.

Rule # 2 — Prepare yourself to spend some time in hospital.

Rule # 3 — Tell your doctor if you feel sick, having any type of flu. Even a small flue might cause serious infection resulting in heart attack or cardiovascular disease.

After operation

Before leaving hospital after operation, you will get detailed instructions how to act in the upcoming 2-6 months.

Home recovery and rehabilitation

After operation, you will get specific instructions from your doctor, concerning:

health incisions;
everyday routine, diet, and physical activity (physical exercises);
discovering infections;
cases, when you must contact doctor.

Ongoing care

It is important to perform periodic checkups with your doctor. Usually, doctor analyzes your hear dynamics, performing several tests:

electrocardiogram;
stress testing.

Another treatment deals with everyday lifestyle, meaning introduction of new diet, physical activity.

Diet Instructions

After operation you might feel a reduced appetite. In this case, try to eat more often with small portions. Your diet will get balanced within 2-3 weeks. There is no need in specific diet, however, because of the reduced physical activity, there are some useful rules to follow.

Eat slowly and chew everything properly.

Eat a bit less, than you want.

Follow your eating schedule.

Treatment results

In fact, you are supposed to have positive dynamics in your cure process. Once again, it is very important to follow the instructions of your doctor step-by-step, as it can guarantee you the best and timely cure.

Turn to our professional help and take care of your health. You can call anytime and get your consultation with our doctors regarding any problems. Remember, that taking preventive actions are better than dealing with complicated situations.