Coronary Bypass Surgery in Noida, Delhi Ncr, India

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Definition

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide. Despite its life-saving potential, misunderstandings and fears often prevent many from benefiting from this procedure. This article aims to clarify what CABG involves and dispel common myths.

What Are Coronary Arteries? How Does the Heart Receive Its Blood Supply?

The heart is a complex muscular pump that supplies blood to the body. Blood is transported via arteries, carrying essential oxygen and nutrients. The heart itself receives blood through the coronary arteries, which include the left and right coronary arteries and their branches. The left main coronary artery (LMCA) divides into the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and the circumflex artery (LCx). These, along with the right coronary artery (RCA), constitute the arteries often referred to in ‘triple vessel disease’. These arteries further divide into numerous branches, supplying blood to the heart muscle.

What Is Coronary Artery Disease? How Does It Affect the Heart?

Coronary artery disease occurs when fatty deposits accumulate on the arterial walls, leading to narrowing and blockage of one or more coronary arteries. This reduced blood supply to the heart causes chest pain, known as angina. In severe cases, a heart attack may occur, causing permanent damage and reducing the heart’s efficiency.

CABG (Coronary Bypass Surgery)

CABG, or Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting, restores blood flow to the heart muscle by bypassing blocked arteries using the patient’s own blood vessels. The internal mammary arteries (IMAs), saphenous veins from the legs, and the radial artery from the arm are commonly used for grafting. The left internal mammary artery (LIMA) is often preferred for bypassing the LAD due to its superior long-term results. The surgeon tailors the revascularization plan to the patient’s specific needs, bypassing rather than removing the blockages.

Conventional CABG

In conventional CABG, the heart-lung machine is used to stop the heart, allowing the surgeon to operate on a still, blood-free surface. The machine maintains circulation by removing carbon dioxide from the blood and replacing it with oxygen, ensuring continuous blood flow throughout the body.

Beating Heart Bypass Surgery (Off-Pump Surgery)

Off-pump, or beating heart bypass surgery, allows the surgeon to perform the procedure while the heart is still beating. Medication may be administered to slow the heart, but it continues to pump during the operation. This technique is particularly useful for patients with single-vessel disease and avoids the use of the heart-lung machine. Our hospital has successfully performed over 5000 off-pump surgeries in the past six years, resulting in smoother postoperative recovery and fewer complications.

Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery aims to enhance patient comfort by reducing pain and trauma. This approach involves a smaller incision, typically 3-4 inches, compared to the 6-8 inch incision required for traditional surgery. Specialized surgical instruments are used to perform the procedure through this small opening.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery:

• Smaller Incision and Scar: Less noticeable and reduces trauma.
• Reduced Risk of Infection: Smaller wounds lower the infection risk.
• Less Bleeding and Pain: Minimizes the need for transfusions and reduces discomfort.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Average stay is about three days, compared to five days for traditional surgery.
• Faster Recovery Time: Patients typically recover in 2-4 weeks, compared to 6-8 weeks for traditional surgery.

By offering less invasive options, we aim to improve patient outcomes and recovery experiences.