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What Is Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery?

Coronary artery disease is a condition in which the coronary arteries are narrowed and blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced.

The heart gets its nourishment from the coronary arteries. These arteries branch off from the main artery (the aorta) right into the heart muscle itself. They carry nutrients and oxygen to the heart muscle. If the coronary arteries become damaged or diseased, the heart muscle does not get the nutrition and oxygen it needs to do its job. The heart's job is to pump blood to the rest of the body. When this is impaired, a heart problem becomes serious.

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgery is a common operation performed to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. Blood vessels are taken from other areas of the body and attached to the coronary arteries beyond the diseased part of the artery. The blood is then able to flow around the damaged or blocked area to the rest of the heart muscle. If more than one artery is diseased, more than one bypass graft may be necessary.

Prior to surgery, a heart catheterization may be done to determine the location and extent of diseased coronary arteries. Other tests may also be done, such as x-rays and blood tests, to determine the status of other body functions prior to surgery.

During the operation, a team of surgeons will open the chest at the breastbone to allow the surgeon to see the heart. Another incision may be made in the lower leg if a leg vein will be used as the bypass graft. An artery in the chest, called the internal mammary artery, may be used instead of a leg vein. Once the surgery is done, the breastbone will be closed with wire and the chest and other incisions will be closed with staples or stitches.

It is important to know that surgery does not cure coronary artery disease. After surgery, follow your physician's advice for exercise, diet, medications and other prescribed treatment. Other factors that will help improve health and reduce risk of further disease are stop smoking, exercise regularly, reduce weight and dietary fat, and control blood pressure and diabetes.

For more information, speak with your health care provider. If your health care provider would like to refer you to a cardiologist, ask for a referral to a Saint Vincent Heart Center cardiac specialist. Information is also available by contacting your local chapter of the American Heart Association or call the national office at (800) 242-8721 or visit their website at www.americanheart.org.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. HIL File CARD4291.RF2 VRS# 6101 Data Version 7.0
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