Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery in India
Why Is This Surgery Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Necessary? This surgery is essential for addressing severe coronary artery disease. Here are the primary reasons a doctor might recommend this procedure:
- Chest Pain from Narrowed Arteries: When coronary arteries narrow, blood flow decreases, leading to chest pain even when at rest. This procedure helps restore blood flow and alleviate the pain.
- Multiple Damaged Arteries: If several coronary arteries are damaged and the left ventricle (the heart’s primary pumping chamber) is not working effectively, this surgery can improve heart function.
- Failure of Angioplasty: If angioplasty, which uses a balloon to widen narrowed arteries, is not an option or fails, this procedure provides a more durable solution.
- Stent Failure: If a previously placed stent fails or the artery re-narrows, this surgery offers a better alternative.
- Heart Attack: For patients who have had a heart attack and other treatments have not worked, this surgery may be the best option.
Surgical Techniques
The procedure typically lasts between three to six hours. It involves several methods:
- On-Pump Surgery: This traditional method requires a large incision in the chest. A heart-lung machine takes over the heart’s function during the surgery. Surgeons then graft a healthy blood vessel to bypass the blocked artery.
- Off-Pump Surgery: This method is performed while the heart is still beating. Specialized equipment stabilizes the area of the heart needing repair, avoiding the need for a heart-lung machine.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Using small incisions and robotic techniques, this approach avoids the large chest incision, leading to quicker recovery and less pain.
Post-Surgery Care
After the surgery, patients move to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for monitoring. A breathing tube is used until the patient can breathe on their own. Most patients are discharged within a week, assuming there are no complications.
Long-Term Management
While this procedure addresses blocked arteries effectively, long-term relief requires lifestyle changes. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial for preventing future cardiovascular issues and ensuring lasting health benefits.
Conclusion
India offers advanced options and expert care for severe coronary artery disease. With state-of-the-art facilities and skilled surgeons, patients can receive effective treatments, making India a leading destination for cardiovascular care.
