• 17 February 2025

Bypass surgery is known as Coronary artery bypass graft(CABG) surgery. Bypass surgery improves blood flow to the heart when blocked or partially blocked arteries. The procedure involves redirecting blood around the blocked artery using a healthy blood vessel from another body part. Healthy blood vessels can be taken from body parts such as the leg, arm, or chest. At the same time, bypass surgery can significantly improve a person’s condition and reduce the risk of heart attack. Before opting for bypass surgery, you need to keep in mind that bypass surgery is not an absolute cure for heart disease, and blockages can still occur after the surgery.

Why Coronary Bypass Surgery Is Performed

Coronary bypass surgery is recommended in several situations:

• Severe chest pain (angina) due to narrowed arteries that limit blood flow to the heart muscle, despite optimal medical therapy.
• Significant blockage in multiple diseased coronary arteries, making it challenging for blood to reach critical areas of the heart.
• Failure of angioplasty (a less invasive procedure to open blocked arteries) to clear blockages effectively or when the blockage is not amenable to angioplasty.
• Severe artery blockage in the left main coronary artery, which supplies a significant portion of blood to the heart, poses a high risk of heart attack.

The Risk of Blockage After Bypass Surgery

Although many people feel better after coronary bypass surgery, with some remaining symptom-free for 10 to 15 years, there is a notable chance of heart blockage after bypass surgery. This can occur in the new graft (the blood vessel used to bypass the blocked artery) or in other not initially bypassed arteries. The reasons for this include the progression of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) in both the grafted vessels and the native coronary arteries. Understanding the types of grafts used and their respective long-term patency rates is crucial for managing expectations.

Symptoms of Heart Blockage After Bypass

If the graft or other arteries become clogged after surgery, a person may experience heart blockage symptoms similar to those experienced before the bypass. Here are some symptoms of heart blockage after bypass

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina) may feel like tightness, pressure, or squeezing in the chest.
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or exertion.
• Fatigue, feeling unusually tired or weak, even after rest.
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) can manifest as palpitations or fluttering in the chest.
• Nausea, sweating, or dizziness, which may accompany chest pain.

It’s important to note that some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms, so regular follow-up appointments and cardiac evaluations are crucial.

Preventing heart blockage after surgery

To avoid heart blockage after bypass surgery, it is crucial to take medications as prescribed to prevent blood clots, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and control diabetes. Long-term results largely depend on the individual’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Key steps include:

• Stop smoking

You have to quit smoking completely for Preventing heart blockage after surgery. Quitting smoking is crucial for preventing further damage to blood vessels and improving overall cardiovascular health. Smoking accelerates the progression of atherosclerosis, leading to faster blockage of grafts and native arteries.

• Healthy diet

A diet low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can help maintain healthy arteries. Focus on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Regular exercise

Regular physical activity helps improve heart health and circulation. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

• Stress management

 Managing stress through relaxation techniques, yoga, or meditation can positively impact heart health. Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors.

Additional Therapies

In addition to lifestyle changes and medication, consider alternative or additional therapies that may promote cardiovascular health. EECP Therapy in India Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) is a non-invasive therapy that may help improve blood flow to the heart by opening up collateral blood vessels. EECP treatment is available in India and other countries as a potential option for those experiencing persistent angina despite bypass surgery.

End Note

While coronary bypass surgery is an effective treatment for severe heart artery blockage, maintaining long-term heart health requires an ongoing commitment to medication, a healthy lifestyle, and regular follow-up with your healthcare team. Understanding the types of grafts used, recognizing potential symptoms, and being proactive can significantly reduce the risk of heart blockage after bypass surgery and improve overall quality of life. Regular monitoring and adherence to medical advice are essential for long-term success.