Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting is a surgical procedure that's carried out to bypass (go around) blocked coronary (heart) arteries aiming to restore normal blood flow to the heart muscle. This procedure uses healthy blood vessels that are surgically removed from another part of the body, including leg veins or the internal mammary artery. It is then sewn around the affected part that is blocked within the artery. This allows a pathway for blood to flow normally again.
Why do you need Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)?
Surgeons usually carry this procedure out to treat extreme cases of coronary heart disease, which is categorized by the hardening of the heart arteries due to the gradual build up of fatty deposits, called plaques, in the wall of the arteries. Over time, this build-up can be hazardous to the heart muscle as it can clog up blood flow within the arteries. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) can aid in restoring blood flow to the heart muscle and relieves symptoms relating to the coronary heart disease including Angina (chest pain).
For patients with diabetes, this procedure can help in lowering the risk of an occuring heart attack. Essentially, your chance of survival increases and ensures that you're able to lead a normal lifestyle in the future.