Understanding CABG: Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Explained

What Is CABG Surgery?

CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting) is a life-saving heart surgery used to treat blocked arteries in the heart. When arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque (cholesterol and fat deposits), the heart muscle can suffer, leading to chest pain (angina), fatigue, or heart attacks.

CABG creates new pathways ("bypasses") to restore healthy blood flow using blood vessels taken from the patient’s body—typically from the chest, leg, or arm.

Why Is CABG Needed?

• Multiple blockages in the coronary arteries
• Severe narrowing in the main artery (left main disease)
• Failed angioplasty or stenting
• Diabetic patients with widespread blockages
• Chronic chest pain despite medication

How Does CABG Work?

During surgery, the surgeon takes healthy blood vessels (called grafts) from the chest (internal mammary artery), leg (saphenous vein), or arm (radial artery), and attaches one end of the graft to the aorta and the other beyond the blockage.

This allows blood to "bypass" the blocked segment, restoring oxygen supply to the heart.

Types of Grafts Used in CABG

Dr. Brajmohan Singh uses artery-first strategies (IMA/BIMA) whenever possible for better long-term outcomes.

What to Expect: Step-by-Step Process

1. Before Surgery: Complete heart evaluation, fitness tests, and consultation
2. During Surgery: General anesthesia, heart may be stopped or beating, duration: 3–5 hrs
3. After Surgery: ICU: 1–2 days, Ward: 4–6 days, Recovery: 6–8 weeks

CABG vs. Angioplasty (Stent)

Common Myths About CABG

• “CABG is risky.” – With modern techniques, risk is low and outcomes are excellent.
• “Life ends after bypass.” – Most patients enjoy better, active lives after surgery.
• “Stents are always better.” – Not true; for severe disease, CABG is superior.