Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) is a major heart surgery that aims to bypass blocked or narrowed arteries. When the heart arteries are blocked, not enough oxygen and nutrients reach the heart. This condition is known as coronary artery disease (CAD) and can result in a heart attack or angina. In this article, we will discuss in detail the procedure of coronary artery bypass surgery, its benefits, risks, and aftercare.
Coronary Artery Disease and its Causes
Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque (cholesterol and other substances) builds up in the arteries, obstructing blood flow. The major causes include the following:
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels.
- High cholesterol levels: High cholesterol promotes the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
- High blood pressure: High blood pressure weakens the walls of the arteries.
- Irregular lifestyle: Irregular diet and lack of exercise increase the risk of heart problems.
How is coronary artery bypass surgery performed?
During this surgery, surgeons take a healthy blood vessel from your body (usually from the leg, chest, or arm) and connect it to the heart arteries that have become narrowed or blocked. This helps restore blood flow and ensure the heart receives the necessary oxygen and nutrients.
Procedure:
Surgical preparation: The patient is given anesthesia so that he or she remains unconscious throughout the surgery.
- Artery bypass: Healthy blood vessels are used to bypass the arteries.
- After surgery: After bypass surgery, the patient is kept under observation in the ICU.
Benefits of coronary artery bypass surgery
- Relief in chest pain: Angina (chest pain) symptoms improve after surgery.
- Reduced risk of heart attack: Bypass surgery can reduce the risk of future heart attacks.
- Improved quality of life: After this surgery, patients can perform their daily activities better.
Post-surgery care
The patient needs special care after coronary artery bypass surgery. It includes the following major points:
Recovery process: After surgery, the patient is kept in the ICU and their heartbeat, blood pressure, and other vital signs are monitored. It may take 6 to 12 weeks to recover completely.
Diet and exercise: After surgery, it is necessary to follow the diet and exercise routine suggested by the cardiologist. Low cholesterol and a balanced diet can improve heart health.
Medication intake: After bypass surgery, it is necessary to take the medicines prescribed by the doctor regularly to keep the blood flow smooth and prevent plaque formation.
Risks of coronary artery bypass surgery
Every surgery has some risks, and coronary artery bypass surgery is also not untouched by it. Although this surgery is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks involved:
Infection: There is a risk of infection after surgery, especially when the incisions are not properly cleaned.
Bleeding: Excessive bleeding may occur during or after surgery.
Heart attack: In rare cases, there may be a risk of heart attack during or after surgery.
Cost of Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in India
The cost of this surgery in India depends on several factors, such as the location of the hospital, surgeon's fees, patient's health condition, and hospital facilities. However, this surgery in India is affordable compared to other countries, and this is the reason why people come to India under medical tourism and avail this surgery. The average cost of this surgery in India can range from ₹1,50,000 to ₹5,00,000.
Best Hospitals for Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in India
There are many excellent hospitals in India where this surgery is performed by experienced surgeons. These include:
- Apollo Hospital, Chennai
- Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Delhi
- Narayana Health City, Bengaluru
- Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
Tips to avoid coronary artery bypass surgery
Although this surgery can provide relief in heart diseases, it can also be avoided if a healthy lifestyle is adopted. The risk of coronary artery disease can be reduced by following the tips given below:
Don’t smoke: Smoking is harmful for heart health.
Eat a healthy diet: Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet and avoid fried foods.
Exercise regularly: Do at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, such as brisk walking or yoga.
Control your weight: Being overweight increases pressure on the heart, so keep your weight under control.
Conclusion
Coronary artery bypass surgery is a lifesaving procedure that helps restore blood flow to the heart and improve symptoms of heart disease. Although it carries some risks, these risks can be minimized with expert care and proper post-surgery care. This surgery in India is affordable compared to other countries, and the experienced surgeons and modern hospitals here make it an attractive option.