| Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) |
Coronary artery bypass surgery, like angioplasty, increases the amount of blood flow to the heart and eases discomfort. People with angina usually are candidates for coronary artery bypass surgery if they have: |
- Widespread obstruction to the left main coronary artery
- "Three-vessel disease" (obstructions in three main coronary arteries)
- Obstruction that is more diffuse and not felt suitable for angioplasty.
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Bypass surgery is especially recommended if the individual has significantly decreased heart function, or hazardous changes in the ECG (electrocardiogram). |
Bye Pass Surgery- procedure: |
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A piece of blood vessel - usually a vein from the leg or an artery from the chest - is removed from the patient and is used to "bypass" the section of coronary artery that is blocked.
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One nd of the graft (transplanted vessel) is connected below the blockage in the coronary artery.
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The other end is sewn into the aorta (major artery that carries blood away from the heart and into the body).
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The bypass procedure is repeated for each obstructed coronary artery (for example, "triple bypass" means that three grafts have been made to skirt arterial blockages).
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Increasingly, the artery from the chest (called the internal mammary artery) is being used, because this is easily accomplished and results are better.
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Bypass operations are now commonplace, but some risks remain. A cardiologist (heart specialist) will be able to explain the possible risks and benefits in each particular case. In many people, the surgical risk is less than that for gallbladder removal.
After surgery, bypass patients need to spend a few days in intensive care, but they usually can go home in about a week. Most people can return to work after a few weeks, although the length of recovery is determined by factors such as age and the person's overall health and fitness. |
Most people can resume a normal or near-normal life after treatment of angina. Some lifestyle changes will be necessary, but life can still be good.
Simple angina can be kept under control by |
- Following medical advice
- Taking necessary medication
- Keeping in good physical condition
- Eating well
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Even if angina is complicated by other health problems, it should be controllable.
Angina is not a disease of the "fragile." In fact, most angina sufferers lead extremely busy, stress-filled lives. Their disease provides a warning sign that they need to make adjustments in an otherwise full life.
Immediately contact a cardiologist if angina attacks become more frequent or more severe. This is especially important if angina comes on while a person is resting, or if nitrate tablets seem to become less effective. |
