Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is a surgical procedure used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition in which the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis). CABG aims to improve blood flow to the heart muscle by creating new pathways (bypasses) for blood to flow around the blocked or narrowed sections of the arteries.
How CABG is performed:
- Harvesting the graft: Healthy blood vessels (grafts) are taken from other parts of the body, usually the leg (saphenous vein), chest (internal mammary artery), or arm (radial artery).
- Creating the bypass: The surgeon attaches one end of the graft to the aorta (the main artery from the heart) and the other end below the blockage in the coronary artery, effectively bypassing the blocked segment.
- Restoring blood flow: The bypass allows blood to flow around the obstruction and reach the heart muscle, which can reduce symptoms like chest pain (angina), improve heart function, and lower the risk of heart attack.
Types of CABG:
- Traditional CABG: This is the most common approach and is performed through a large incision in the chest while the heart is temporarily stopped, using a heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass).
- Off-pump CABG: Also known as "beating heart" surgery, this technique allows the surgery to be performed without stopping the heart, reducing complications for some patients.
- Minimally invasive CABG: A less invasive option where the surgeon makes smaller incisions, reducing recovery time and risks.
When is CABG recommended?
CABG is typically recommended when:
- Multiple coronary arteries are significantly blocked.
- Blockages are in critical locations, such as the left main coronary artery.
- Angina is severe and not responding to medication or less invasive treatments like angioplasty.
Benefits:
- Relief from chest pain (angina).
- Improved ability to engage in physical activities.
- Lower risk of future heart attacks.
- Improved overall quality of life.
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