Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
CABG stands for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting. It is a
surgical procedure used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD)
by bypassing blocked or narrowed coronary arteries with
healthy blood vessels to improve blood flow to the heart
muscle.
Indications for CABG
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Multiple coronary
arteries are narrowed or blocked
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Chest pain or
discomfort not relieved by medications
-
Blockage in the
left main artery supplying a large portion of the heart
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Failed Medical
Management
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Those with complex
coronary anatomy, diabetes, or prior failed
interventions (e.g., angioplasty).
Preoperative Precautions
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Medical
Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment of heart function,
overall health, and risk factors.
-
Medication
Management: Adjustments to medications to optimize heart
function and reduce surgical risks.
-
Blood Tests and
Imaging: Tests to evaluate heart function, blood
clotting ability, and anatomy (e.g., angiogram).
-
Smoking Cessation:
Quit smoking to reduce complications during and after
surgery.
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Informed Consent:
Detailed discussion with the surgeon about the
procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
-
Preoperative
Rehabilitation: Cardiovascular conditioning exercises to
improve overall fitness.
Benefits
CABG surgery restores blood flow to the heart, reducing angina
and improving overall heart function. It lowers the risk of
heart attack and enhances quality of life by relieving
symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath,
ultimately promoting better cardiovascular health and
longevity.
Postoperative Care
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Intensive Care
Unit (ICU) Monitoring: This involves initial recovery
and close monitoring of heart function, breathing, and
overall health.
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Medications to
control pain and discomfort.
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Deep breathing
exercises and respiratory therapy to prevent
complications like pneumonia.
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Gradual
mobilization to prevent blood clots and improve
recovery.
-
Heart-healthy diet
to manage cholesterol and blood pressure.
-
Cardiac
Rehabilitation to improve heart health through exercise,
education, and support.
-
Regular follow-up
with a cardiologist to monitor heart function,
medications, and lifestyle modifications.
CABG surgery stands as a crucial intervention in
cardiovascular medicine, offering significant benefits by
restoring blood flow to the heart and improving overall
cardiac function. It alleviates symptoms, reduces the risk of
heart attack, and enhances quality of life, making it a
pivotal treatment option for patients with coronary artery
disease.
