Your heart starts beating while you are still in the womb and continues to do so until you die. It is a strong organ and for most people, it performs without a problem throughout their lives. However, heart health problems are on the rise the world over and India is no exception. The stresses of modern life, sedentary lifestyles and bad diets all contribute to a situation where the heart may be affected. There are many types of cardiac ailments, but among the most common are blocked heart arteries. These are the blood vessels that carry fresh oxygenated blood from the heart to all parts of the body, providing the metabolic system with the support it needs to keep functioning. Over time, plaque can collect on the inner walls of these arteries and this can cause a restriction in the flow of blood. When this happens, certain parts of the body are unable to receive adequate amounts of oxygenated blood, which impairs their functioning. If not diagnosed and treated in time, this condition will become progressively worse and may reach life-threatening proportions.
What Is a Bypass?
Coronary artery bypass surgery is done to create an alternative route for the blood to flow so that the fully or partially blocked part of the artery is “bypassed”. During the procedure, a healthy blood vessel is used to replace the blocked one so that blood flow can continue normally. The surgery is known by several names, including:
It is important to note that bypass surgery does not cure a cardiac condition like atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease. However, it does enhance the blood flow and reduces the symptoms of the prevalent cardiac condition. The surgery may also reduce any possible fatal consequences of the heart problem.
Why It Is Done
The procedure can be done as a scheduled elective process if the problem is diagnosed at an early stage, or it can be done as part of an emergency treatment in case of a heart attack. Among the common conditions that call for bypass surgery are:
Preparing for the Surgery
Once it has been decided to proceed with the bypass surgery, you will be told about the preparations you will have to make in advance. These will include, but may not be limited to, changes in activities, medicines and diet. The cardiologist will give case-specific instructions. Following the preparation instructions is vital for the successful outcome of the surgery.
Heart, blood and other tests are done before the surgery. Patients are typically admitted to the hospital the day before the procedure.
After the Surgery
After the surgery is completed, the patient is taken to the intensive care unit (ICU) to enable close post-surgery monitoring. All going well, a patient may expect a 1 to 2-day stay in the ICU after which the patient can be moved to a post-surgery room or ward to continue the recovery. The duration of the hospital stay will depend on various factors, including other health issues. In general, patients can expect to be sent home within a week.
Patients are given a medication schedule they need to follow at home, as well as a cardiac rehabilitation process, which may involve physiotherapy, exercise and diet control. These requirements will be gradually removed as the patient’s recovery progresses.
Patients will be informed of the symptoms of possible post-surgical complications. They must contact their doctor if they notice any:
Long-Term Prognosis
As the recovery progresses, the overall health will improve. Many people remain symptom-free for many years. However, it can happen that the bypass may get blocked in the future, necessitating a repeat surgery. The long-term health of the patients depends on making lifestyle changes such as:
While procedures such as coronary bypasses are now mainstream ones and are done on an almost routine basis, they are still major surgeries and any such procedure carries an element of risk. Cardiac conditions should be treated only at a hospital with a specialized cardiology department. Treatment in a hospital like New Medical Center (NMC) in Pondicherry means that patients will be under the care of the best cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who have access to the latest medical and surgical technology, processes and equipment. NMC is a multispecialty hospital, which is another benefit for cardiac patients. Heart ailments may affect the functioning and health of other parts of the body and the onsite availability of medical specialists from a wide range of disciplines means that any non-cardiac medical intervention that may be required for the treatment will also be available. The benefits of this to the patients are immense.
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Common Questions About Coronary Bypass Surgery
- What is coronary bypass surgery?
Coronary bypass surgery is a procedure where a healthy blood vessel is taken from another part of the body and used to create a new pathway for blood to flow around blocked heart arteries. This restores normal blood circulation to the heart muscle.
- Why is bypass surgery needed?
Bypass surgery is recommended when heart arteries are severely blocked and blood can no longer flow properly. It is usually recommended in cases of severe chest pain, multiple blocked arteries, failed angioplasty, or during a heart attack.
- Does bypass surgery cure heart disease permanently?
No. Bypass surgery does not cure coronary artery disease or atherosclerosis. It only improves blood flow and reduces symptoms. Long-term results depend on lifestyle changes and medical management.
- How long does recovery take after bypass surgery?
Most patients spend 1–2 days in the ICU and about a week in the hospital. Full recovery typically takes about 6–12 weeks, depending on overall health and adherence to rehabilitation programs.
- Is bypass surgery safe?
Bypass surgery is a common and widely practiced cardiac procedure with high success rates. However, like all major surgeries, it carries some risks, which will be explained by the cardiologist before the procedure.
- Will I need medication after bypass surgery?
Yes. Medicines for controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and preventing clot formation are essential. Stopping medications without consulting a doctor can be dangerous.