Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)

Coronary artery bypass grafting is considered for people with significant blockages in the arteries that supply the heart. A surgeon uses a healthy blood vessel from elsewhere in the body to route blood around the blocked section.

The decision to proceed depends on the pattern of disease, heart function, other medical conditions and patient preferences after discussion with a cardiologist and cardiac surgeon.

• Multi-vessel coronary artery disease
• Left main coronary artery disease
• Angina not controlled by medication or stents
• Reduced heart function with suitable coronary anatomy

• ECG and echocardiogram
• Coronary angiography
• Blood tests including kidney and liver profile
• Chest imaging and pre-anaesthetic assessment

• Conventional on-pump CABG
• Off-pump (beating heart) CABG
• Minimally invasive direct CABG in selected cases

• Share previous angiograms, echocardiograms and medication list
• Blood thinners may need to be adjusted before surgery
• Stop smoking as early as possible before the procedure
• Arrange an escort or attendant for the hospital stay

5–7 days in hospital; 14–21 days recommended in the treating city

• Guided mobilisation from the day after surgery
• Cardiac rehabilitation over 6–12 weeks
• Follow-up reviews at 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 3 months

• Bleeding, infection or reaction to anaesthesia
• Rhythm disturbances, particularly atrial fibrillation
• Stroke or kidney impairment (uncommon)
• Need for repeat intervention over the long term

No procedure is risk-free and no clinic can guarantee outcomes. Risks and expected benefits are discussed with the treating specialist before any decision.