Patient guide

CABG / Bypass Surgery: A Patient Guide

A practical guide for families considering coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

What is CABG?

Coronary artery bypass grafting, commonly called bypass surgery, creates a new route for blood to reach heart muscle when coronary arteries are significantly narrowed or blocked. The graft may use a blood vessel from the chest, arm or leg.

When might it be discussed?

A cardiology and cardiac-surgery team may discuss CABG when several arteries are affected, an important artery is narrowed, symptoms continue despite medicines, or the anatomy makes a catheter procedure less suitable. The decision depends on angiography, heart function, diabetes, kidney health and overall fitness—not on one report alone.

Preparing for the consultation

• Bring angiography images and reports, ECG/echo reports and a complete medicine list.
• Tell the team about diabetes, allergies, previous operations, dental problems and blood-thinning medicines.
• Ask which medicines to continue, pause or restart; never stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice.

Recovery in simple terms

Recovery usually includes monitored hospital care, gradual walking, wound care, breathing exercises and a staged return to normal activity. The team will explain driving, lifting, work, diet and cardiac rehabilitation for the individual patient.

Questions families can ask

• Why is bypass recommended for this coronary anatomy?
• What alternatives are reasonable?
• What should we bring to hospital and how long might recovery take?
• Who do we call if fever, wound discharge or worsening breathlessness occurs?

FAQs

Is CABG the same for every patient?

No. The number and type of grafts, the surgical approach and recovery plan are personalised.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes. A second opinion is useful when you want the angiogram and treatment options explained in everyday language.

Discuss CABG with Dr. Dhiren Shah