What You Need To Know About Heart Bypass Surgery?

Answer 1

Worrying about heart bypass surgery is common. Knowing what to expect can help alleviate fears. The largest part of preparing for heart bypass surgery is knowing about the surgery. Along with valve surgery, heart bypass surgery is the most common form of heart surgery.

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery, also called CABG, is performed to improve blood flow in arteries that have become blocked. The heart receives oxygen-enriched blood through the coronary arteries. If they become blocked, blood cannot flow freely to the heart. This lack of blood to the heart can cause chest pain, often referred to as angina, or a heart attack.

If your doctor determines you need CABG, veins are removed from your leg to provide a graft that will bypass your blocked artery. This results in blood being able to flow freely and reach your heart. Additionally, arteries from your chest or your forearm are sometimes used. Your legs, chest, and forearm can function properly without the veins and arteries that are used for your bypass.

The most common form of heart bypass surgery involves using a heart-lung machine. Other forms include using specialized tools that slow and quiet the part of the heart where the bypass is being done or using a small scope with a light in a surgical procedure to repair your heart. The type of heart bypass surgery performed depends on the location of your blockages, how many blockages your heart contains and which surgery your doctor recommends.

Incisions

To reach your heart, an incision is made in the center of your chest. It will run from just below the neck to the bottom of your breastbone. The breastbone is then cut apart and the heart bypass surgery is performed. Then, the breastbone is wired together and the incision is either sewn, glued or stapled together. You will be unable to feel these wires and they do not have to be removed after surgery. As you move around and recover, your incision will heal and become better. Generally, the incision site is no longer bothersome after two weeks and is completely healed by six weeks.

After heart bypass surgery be kind to your body. Eat healthy foods so your body can heal, get plenty of rest and do the light exercises recommended by your doctor. Don't skip any follow-up appointments and talk to your doctor or family if you find yourself depressed or irritable. Healing is the best thing you can do for yourself and for your loved ones.