A heart bypass surgery, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a surgical procedure used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD). Here's what you need to know:
Causes
When coronary arteries narrow or become blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), heart bypass surgery is typically performed to treat severe coronary artery disease. Blood flow to the heart muscle can be restricted as a result, causing symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and increasing the risk of an attack.
Symptoms
Heart bypass surgery may be indicated by the following symptoms of coronary artery disease:
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Angina (chest pain)
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Breathing difficulties
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Tiredness
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Palpitations
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Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
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Symptoms of nausea
It is possible for coronary artery disease to progress without causing noticeable symptoms, especially in individuals with diabetes or who are elderly.
Diagnosis
Coronary artery disease is diagnosed and heart bypass surgery is recommended when:
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A healthcare provider will assess a patient's symptoms, medical history, and risk factors for heart disease.
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To evaluate the heart's function and identify blockages in the coronary arteries, diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), stress test, echocardiogram, coronary angiography, and cardiac catheterization may be performed.
Treatment
When severe coronary artery disease cannot be adequately managed with medication or other less invasive procedures, heart bypass surgery is a common treatment option. By bypassing blocked or narrowed arteries with healthy blood vessels (grafts) harvested from elsewhere in the body, a surgeon creates new blood flow channels to the heart muscle.
Prevention
Heart bypass surgery is often necessary to treat advanced coronary artery disease, but there are several preventive measures individuals can take to reduce their risk:
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Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle: This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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Coronary artery disease can be prevented or slowed down by controlling underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity.
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Screenings and preventive care can help detect heart disease risk factors early and allow for timely intervention.
Conclusion
When severe coronary artery disease cannot be treated with medication or less invasive procedures, heart bypass surgery is an effective and common treatment. Blood flow to the heart muscle is improved, symptoms are relieved, and complications like heart attacks and heart failure are reduced. The best way to prevent coronary artery disease and reduce the need for surgical intervention is to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle and manage risk factors.
