Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) in India is a major medical procedure to remove blockages in the heart. This surgery is performed when there is a blockage in the coronary arteries and there is not enough blood flow to the heart. In this article, we will learn when and why this surgery is recommended, its benefits, risks, and aftercare.
What is coronary artery bypass surgery?
Coronary artery bypass surgery is an open-heart procedure in which the patient’s blocked arteries are bypassed. Surgeons use a new artery or vein to divert blood to the heart by bypassing the blocked area. It is also called “heart bypass surgery” or “CABG”.
When is it recommended?
Blockage in arteries: This surgery becomes necessary when there is too much blockage in the coronary arteries and blood flow stops.
Failure of drug treatment: If the blockage cannot be opened with drugs and other treatments, bypass surgery may be an effective option.
After a heart attack: If the patient has already had a heart attack, and the condition is severe, surgery can prevent further damage to the heart muscle.
Types of surgery
On-pump surgery: In this procedure, the heart is temporarily stopped, and a heart-lung machine circulates blood and oxygen. This helps the surgeon work on a still heart.
Off-pump surgery: Also called “beating heart surgery,” the heart is not stopped. It is done when the patient’s condition is extremely critical.
Minimally invasive surgery: In some cases, surgery can be done without opening the chest, but this procedure is not suitable for all patients.
Preparations before surgery
Some important things to keep in mind before surgery are:
Quit smoking: Smoking should be stopped at least 2-3 weeks before surgery.
Medication abstinence: Some medications, especially aspirin, need to be stopped before surgery.
Fasting: The patient should avoid eating and drinking on the day of surgery.
Pre-operative tests: ECG, X-rays, and blood tests are done before surgery.
Post-surgery care
Proper post-surgery care is extremely important. The patient is kept in the hospital for about 7-10 days, and efforts are made to gradually bring him back to normal activities.
Regular exercise and physical therapy: The patient is advised to walk and exercise slowly.
Dietary changes: It is important to eat a balanced and healthy diet. Low-fat and low-cholesterol foods are recommended.
Medication intake: The medications prescribed by the doctor should be taken regularly to improve heart health.
Avoid stress: Mental and physical stress should be avoided after surgery.
Benefits and Risks of Surgery
Benefits:
The blood supply to the heart muscle improves.
The risk of heart attack is reduced.
The normal functioning of the heart is restored, and the patient’s quality of life improves.
Risks:
Risk of infection, especially if the surgical procedure is performed through large incisions.
Bleeding or clotting may occur.
There may be temporary effects on other organs, such as the lungs and kidneys.
In some cases, the heartbeat may become abnormal.
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Cost in India
The cost of this surgery in India can range from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the patient’s condition, the hospital, and the surgeon’s experience. This cost is significantly lower than many developed countries in the world, but there is no compromise in quality.
Conclusion
Coronary artery bypass surgery can be life-saving for critical heart patients. If a person has persistent chest pain, difficulty breathing, or has had a heart attack, it should not be ignored. This surgery is performed by expert doctors in India using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. Deciding on this surgery at the right time can make life longer and healthier.