At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, we offer advanced cardiac surgeries such as Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) to treat coronary artery disease (CAD) and restore optimal heart function. Our team of experienced cardiac surgeons, nurses, and healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional care using state-of-the-art technology and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

Procedure Overview:

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is a surgical procedure used to improve blood flow to the heart muscle in patients with severe coronary artery disease. During CABG, the surgeon creates new pathways (bypass grafts) for blood to flow around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, allowing oxygen-rich blood to reach the heart muscle.

Indications for CABG:

CABG is recommended for patients with significant blockages or narrowing in their coronary arteries that restrict blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and other symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD). The procedure aims to relieve symptoms, improve heart function, and reduce the risk of heart attack and other complications.

Surgical Process:

• Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and relaxation during the procedure.
• Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the chest to access the heart and coronary arteries.
• Harvesting Grafts: Healthy blood vessels (usually from the patient’s leg, arm, or chest) are harvested to create bypass grafts.
• Bypass Graft Placement: The surgeon attaches one end of the graft to the aorta and the other end to the coronary artery beyond the blockage, creating a new pathway for blood flow.
• Completion: After graft placement, the heart is restarted, and the incision is closed.

Benefits of CABG:

• Improved Blood Flow: CABG restores proper blood flow to the heart muscle, relieving symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.
• Reduced Risk of Heart Attack: By bypassing blocked or narrowed arteries, CABG reduces the risk of heart attack and related complications.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients often experience improved heart function and quality of life after CABG, allowing them to resume daily activities with reduced limitations.

Recovery and Follow-up:

After CABG, patients receive comprehensive postoperative care, including pain management, monitoring for complications, and cardiac rehabilitation programs to aid recovery and improve cardiovascular health. Follow-up appointments with cardiologists and cardiac surgeons are scheduled to monitor progress, adjust medications, and provide ongoing support.

What is Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), and who is a candidate for this procedure?

CABG is a surgical procedure to improve blood flow to the heart in patients with severe coronary artery disease (CAD). Candidates are typically those with significant blockages in their coronary arteries, leading to symptoms like chest pain (angina) or those at high risk of heart attack.

 

How is CABG performed, and what are the steps involved in the surgical process?

CABG is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon harvests healthy blood vessels to create bypass grafts, which are then attached to the aorta and coronary arteries to bypass blockages. The heart is restarted, and the incision is closed after graft placement.

 

What are the benefits of CABG for patients with coronary artery disease?

CABG restores proper blood flow to the heart, relieves symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath, reduces the risk of heart attack, and improves overall heart function and quality of life.

 

What is the recovery process like after CABG surgery?

Patients receive postoperative care, including pain management, monitoring for complications, and participation in cardiac rehabilitation programs to aid recovery and improve cardiovascular health. Follow-up appointments are crucial for ongoing monitoring and support.

 

Are there any risks or complications associated with CABG?

While CABG is generally safe, potential risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots, stroke, or heart rhythm abnormalities. Our experienced surgical team takes precautions to minimize these risks and ensure optimal outcomes.

 

How long does it take to recover from CABG surgery?

Recovery times vary, but most patients can resume normal activities gradually within a few weeks to months after surgery. Cardiac rehabilitation plays a crucial role in enhancing recovery and improving long-term outcomes.

 

What lifestyle changes are recommended after CABG to maintain heart health?

Following CABG, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is essential, including regular exercise, a balanced diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol, smoking cessation, stress management, and adherence to prescribed medications.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our dedicated cardiac surgery team is committed to providing excellent care and successful outcomes for patients undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG). If you or a loved one requires cardiac surgery or evaluation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team for personalized treatment and support.