When the arteries supplying blood to the heart become severely blocked, medication or stents may not be enough. In such cases, Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG surgery), commonly called “bypass surgery”, is the only treatment to restore blood flow and prevent life-threatening complications. At Graphic Era Hospital, Dehradun, the Department of Cardiac Sciences is a centre of excellence offering comprehensive heart care across all age groups, from neonates to adults. Our team of cardiac surgeons has extensive experience in performing advanced CABG heart bypass procedures, ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients. With the support of skilled nursing staff, a fully equipped Cardiac Critical Care Unit, and structured cardiac rehabilitation services, we prioritise safety, comfort, and long-term recovery, enabling patients to return to daily life with renewed confidence.
What is Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery?
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery, also known as Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery, is a type of open-heart surgery performed to improve blood flow to the heart. It is recommended when the coronary arteries, the vessels supplying blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked due to fatty deposits called plaques.
In simple terms, the surgery creates a “new route” for blood to flow. A healthy blood vessel is taken from another part of the body (such as the leg, chest, or arm) and attached above and below the blocked artery. This graft allows blood to bypass the blockage and reach the heart muscle.
CABG surgery is one of the most effective heart artery blockage treatments, which helps relieve chest pain (angina), reduce the risk of heart attack, and improve overall heart function.
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When is Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Recommended?
Coronary artery disease doctors recommend coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG surgery) when blood flow to the heart is severely restricted and other treatments such as lifestyle changes, medicines, or stents are not enough. The goal of surgery is to restore circulation, relieve symptoms, and prevent life-threatening complications such as a heart attack.
Common reasons for CABG surgery include:
- Severe coronary artery disease (CAD): Major blockages affecting blood supply to the heart.
- Multiple blocked arteries: When more than one vessel is narrowed or clogged.
- Angina (chest pain): Persistent pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow.
- Post-heart attack cases: To restore circulation after a myocardial infarction.
- Left main coronary artery disease: A serious blockage in the main artery that supplies blood to the heart.
- Reduced heart function: When weakened pumping ability is linked to artery blockages.
Preparing for Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Preparation is an important step before undergoing CABG surgery, as it helps improve safety and recovery outcomes. At Graphic Era Hospital, patients are guided through each stage of preparation with detailed instructions from cardiac surgeons and support staff.
Preparation usually involves:
- Pre-surgery tests and imaging: Blood tests, chest X-rays, ECG, Echocardiogram and coronary angiography to assess heart function and blockages.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and adopting a heart-healthy diet.
- Medication management: Stopping or adjusting certain medicines as advised by the heart doctor.
- Physical readiness: Gentle exercise and breathing exercises recommended by specialists.
- Psychological preparation: Counselling to help patients understand the procedure and recovery.
- Hospital planning: Fasting before surgery, arranging post-discharge care, and preparing for a short hospital stay.
Types of Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Performed at Graphic Era Hospital
At Graphic Era Hospital, our cardiac surgeons perform different types of coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) based on the patient’s condition and the number of blocked arteries. Each method is carefully chosen to restore blood flow to the heart using advanced and often minimally invasive techniques.
The main procedures include:
- On-Pump CABG: In this method, the heart is temporarily stopped, and a heart-lung machine is used to keep blood and oxygen circulating through the body. This allows surgeons to work on a still heart, making it easier to perform delicate grafting with high precision. A graft is a healthy blood vessel taken from another part of the body, usually the chest, leg, or arm, which is used to create a new pathway for blood to flow.
- Off-Pump CABG: Also called “beating-heart surgery,” this technique is performed while the heart continues to beat. It avoids using a heart-lung machine and can reduce complications in older patients or those with other health issues. Surgeons carefully stabilise the part of the heart being operated on while attaching the grafts.
- Minimally Invasive CABG: Instead of opening the entire chest, surgeons make smaller cuts and sometimes use robotic assistance. The grafts are placed through these small incisions, leading to less pain, smaller scars, and quicker recovery compared to traditional open-heart surgery.
- Single, Double, Triple, or Quadruple Bypass: The number refers to how many grafts are created. For example, in a double bypass, two blocked arteries are bypassed using two grafts. The graft vessels are attached above and below each blockage, allowing blood to “bypass” the clogged area and restore healthy circulation to the heart muscle. This relieves chest pain, improves oxygen supply, and lowers the risk of heart attack.
Why Choose Graphic Era Hospital for CABG Surgery in Dehradun?
Experienced Cardiac Surgeons: Our team of highly trained cardiac surgeons in Dehradun has extensive expertise in performing CABG surgery, including complex multiple bypass procedures. Each patient receives a personalised surgical plan designed for the safest and most effective outcome.
Advanced Technology and Minimally Invasive Procedures: We use the latest surgical and monitoring equipment, along with minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques where appropriate. These methods help reduce complications, minimise scarring, and speed up recovery.
Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Personalised Care: Our care extends well beyond surgery. From post-operative monitoring in the Cardiac Critical Care Unit to structured cardiac rehabilitation programmes and preventive cardiology clinics, patients receive holistic support to ensure long-term heart health and improved quality of life.
Recovery, Risks, and Benefits of CABG Surgery
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG) is a major procedure, and recovery is an important part of ensuring its long-term success. At Graphic Era Hospital, patients are cared for in a specialised Cardiac Critical Care Unit equipped with advanced monitors, ventilators, and life-support devices, ensuring round-the-clock safety.
Recovery usually involves:
- Initial monitoring in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for 1–2 days.
- A hospital stay of about a week depending on the patient’s condition.
- Gradual wound healing and recovery over 6–12 weeks.
- Support from physiotherapists and cardiac rehabilitation specialists to regain strength.
- Lifelong preventive cardiology guidance, including heart-healthy diet, exercise, and counselling.
Possible risks and complications include:
- Infection or bleeding at the incision site
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Stroke or heart attack (rare but possible)
- Memory issues or difficulty concentrating (temporary in some patients)
- In rare cases, graft failure or need for repeat surgery
Key benefits of CABG surgery include:
- Improved blood flow to the heart muscle
- Relief from chest pain (angina)
- Lower risk of future heart attacks
- Improved quality of life and ability to stay active
- Increased life expectancy in patients with severe coronary artery disease
Top Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Procedures at Graphic Era Hospital
- On-Pump CABG
- Off-Pump CABG
- Minimally Invasive CABG
- Double Bypass Surgery
- Triple Bypass Surgery
- Quadruple Bypass Surgery
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is coronary artery bypass surgery and why is it done?
Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) is performed to restore blood flow when the heart’s arteries are severely blocked. It helps relieve chest pain, reduce the risk of heart attack, and improve survival in patients with advanced coronary artery disease.
How long does CABG surgery take?
Most CABG operations take between 3 to 6 hours, depending on the number of arteries being bypassed and the patient’s overall health.
What is the recovery time after heart bypass surgery in Dehradun?
Recovery usually takes 6 to 12 weeks. Patients may return to light activities within a few weeks, but complete healing and cardiac rehabilitation take longer.
What are the risks and complications of coronary artery bypass surgery?
Possible risks include bleeding, infection, irregular heartbeat, and, rarely, stroke or graft failure. These are minimised with advanced surgical techniques and close monitoring.
How much does CABG surgery cost in Dehradun?
The cost of CABG surgery in Dehradun varies depending on the type of procedure, hospital stay, and individual health needs. Graphic Era Hospital offers transparent pricing and personalised care plans.
Do all heart blockages require bypass surgery?
No. Some blockages can be treated with medicines or stents. CABG surgery is recommended when blockages are severe, multiple, or not responding to other treatments.
Where can I find the best CABG surgeon near me in Uttarakhand?
Graphic Era Hospital in Dehradun has experienced cardiac surgeons specialising in CABG surgery, making it a trusted choice for patients across Uttarakhand.
Is coronary artery bypass surgery painful?
Patients may experience some pain or discomfort after surgery, but this is managed with medication. Most people improve steadily and feel significantly better within a few weeks.
What lifestyle changes are needed after CABG surgery?
Patients are advised to follow a heart-healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and manage conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure to protect long-term heart health.
What is the success rate of CABG surgery?
CABG surgery has a high success rate, especially when performed at advanced centres such as Graphic Era Hospital. Most patients experience long-lasting relief from angina and improved quality of life.
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