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Heart Bypass/Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG) in Delhi, India
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Call Us+91 954 002 5025Overview
Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG), commonly known as heart bypass surgery, is a surgical procedure that helps improve the blood flow of the heart in patients suffering from severe coronary artery disease (CAD). This procedure is used to treat heart diseases such as heart attack, silent myocardial ischemia, and angina pectoris which is mostly due to atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.
Coronary artery bypass surgery is performed when the coronary arteries narrow, including the blood vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to the muscles in the heart.
CABG Procedure Type
Surgical
Who Needs Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery?
You may be advised to undergo CABG surgery if you experience one or more of the following conditions:
- Severe narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis
- Multiple blocked arteries that cannot be managed with angioplasty or stenting
- Left main coronary artery disease (CAD), where the main artery supplying the heart is narrowed
- Repeated angina (chest pain) not relieved by medications or lifestyle modification
- Heart attack caused by a blocked coronary artery
- Previous stent failure or recurrence of blockage after angioplasty
- Reduced heart function (low ejection fraction) due to ischemic heart disease
Eligibility Criteria
Before recommending CABG, the cardiac team at BLK-Max Hospital conducts detailed diagnostic assessments including:
- Coronary angiography to visualize blockages
- Echocardiography to evaluate heart pumping efficiency
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart rhythm and previous damage
- Stress tests or cardiac MRI, if needed, to determine heart performance under exertion
Based on the extent of coronary blockage, heart function, and overall health, the cardiac surgeon decides whether CABG is the most suitable intervention.
Types of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Procedures Offered at BLK-Max
1. On-Pump CABG (Traditional Bypass Surgery)
This is the conventional method where the heart is temporarily stopped, and a heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass) is used to circulate and oxygenate the blood during the surgery.
2. Off-Pump CABG (Beating Heart Surgery)
In this approach, the heart continues to beat during the surgery, and specialized stabilizers are used to immobilize specific portions of the heart while grafting.
3. Minimally Invasive CABG
This advanced procedure involves making small incisions between the ribs instead of opening the breastbone.
4. Robotic-Assisted CABG (if indicated)
Using robotic surgical systems, this technique offers precision-controlled movements through keyhole incisions.
Preparation for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Before a surgeon performs a coronary artery bypass surgery, they will conduct preparations including the following checkups:
- Tests: A doctor will recommend a few tests before the surgery, including blood tests, an electrocardiogram (EKG), chest X-ray and an echocardiogram.
- Diet, Physiotherapy And Medicines: Before heart surgery, a doctor will recommend a diet chart to follow or recommend what foods to avoid after coronary bypass surgery. In addition, they will add some medications before surgery. Physiotherapy for optimisation of pulmonary function may be advised
- Supplements: Sometimes, people take regular supplements which may increase risks during surgery. The doctor might eliminate the intake of some of these supplements.
- Hospital Admission: Depending upon the results of the tests conducted and the patient’s health condition, a patient might be admitted one day before surgery.
How is Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Performed?
1. Anesthesia and Incision
- The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
- A midline incision is made along the chest to access the heart.
2. Minimally Invasive Surgery
A surgeon makes an incision on the chest (middle), and the rib cage of the patient is spread apart to expose the heart. There are chances that the surgeon might opt for minimally invasive surgery. This includes tiny cuts, special miniaturized equipment or a robotic process.
3. Graft Harvesting
The surgeon draws healthy blood vessels that are taken (harvested) from the leg (saphenous vein), arm (radial artery), or chest (internal mammary artery). These grafts serve as alternate routes for blood flow around the blocked arteries.
4. Bypass Creation
The surgeon attaches one end of the graft beyond the blockage and the other end to the aorta or another major artery. Depending on the technique:
- In on-pump CABG, the heart is temporarily stopped, and the heart-lung machine takes over.
- In off-pump CABG, the heart continues to beat while stabilized for grafting.
A heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass machine) keeps circulating oxygen or blood flow in the body during the surgery. Nowadays advanced and skillful surgeons can conduct the bypass surgery without the use of a heart lung machine, generally known as off-pump CABG.
At our institution we perform total arterial revasculaisation using bilateral chest vessels known as internal mammary arteries which provide better symptom relief (due to superior graft patency rates) along with overall survival benefit.
Follow Up After CABG Surgery
After the surgical procedure, the patient might feel pain at the incision site while breathing deeply or coughing. They will be monitored in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CTVS ICU) for around two days. If the heart's blood and oxygen flow are good, they will then be shifted to the ward of the hospital.
Post-surgery, patients need to take care of their incision wounds and keep them away from water. Pain management, fluid balance, and respiratory support are maintained as per the care protocol. The doctor will also suggest bed rest for a few weeks, for the patient to properly recover. Furthermore, patients are asked to avoid heavy-lifting for 4 weeks to 6 weeks after their surgery.
Risks of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
After coronary artery bypass surgery, there may be some possible risks, including:
- Bleeding: The patient may experience bleeding during or after surgery.
- Infection: If the wound is not cleaned or cared for properly, it may lead to an infection in the incision area.
- Breathing Difficulties: Patients should follow physiotherapy instructions to avoid difficulties related to breathing.
- Temporary arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
- Stroke or transient ischemic attack (rare)
- Kidney function alterations (in high-risk cases)
- Lung infection or breathing difficulty post-surgery
- Memory or concentration issues (temporary, in older adults)
Recovery After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
There is no specified recovery time after heart bypass surgery. A doctor will prescribe medicines for reducing the pain.The antiplatelet drugs will help the patient recover well after surgery. However, if a patient is suffering from diabetes and liver or stomach problems, there might be some changes in prescription. A doctor might change medicines and suggest suitable medication plans for the patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the success rate of coronary artery bypass graft surgery in Delhi?
The success rate of coronary artery bypass graft surgery in Delhi is generally high. The overall success rate depends on various factors such as the patient's health condition, surgeon's expertise, and post-operative care of arterial bypass also helps in providing long term benefit of bypass to the patient .It is done only in some perfect centres.Also It is best to consult with a trusted healthcare provider for personalized information.
2. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after the surgery?
Yes, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial after CABG surgery. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress levels, quitting smoking, and following prescribed medications.
3. Will I still experience chest pain after the surgery?
In most cases, CABG surgery significantly reduces or eliminates chest pain caused by blocked arteries. However, it's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it's best to discuss any concerns with your healthcare team.
4. How long will I be on medications after the surgery?
The duration of medication use after CABG surgery varies depending on individual factors. In general, patients may need to take medications such as blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and antiplatelet agents for lifelong.
5. Will I require cardiac rehabilitation after CABG surgery?
Yes, cardiac rehabilitation is highly recommended after CABG surgery. It involves supervised exercise, lifestyle counseling, and education to optimize recovery and improve long-term outcomes.It ensures speedy recovery.
6. How long do I need to follow up with my cardiologist after CABG surgery?
Regular follow-up visits with your cardiac surgeon are essential after CABG surgery. The frequency of these visits may vary, but typically, patients are advised to have check-ups every few months initially, and then less frequently as they progress in their recovery.
7. How can I prepare myself for CABG surgery in Delhi?
Preparing for CABG surgery involves following the instructions provided by your healthcare team, which may include medication adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and dietary restrictions. It's essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers and address any concerns you may have.
8. What is Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Cost in Delhi?
The cost of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG) in Delhi can vary based on several medical and logistical factors.
- The type of CABG procedure (on-pump, off-pump, or minimally invasive)
- The number of grafts required
- The patient’s age, overall health, and comorbid conditions
- Duration of hospital stay and ICU monitoring needs
- Post-surgery rehabilitation and follow-up requirements
