Double coronary bypass surgery, also known as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a surgical procedure that aims to restore proper blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. This procedure is typically performed when an individual's coronary arteries become severely blocked or damaged due to atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the accumulation of plaque on the arterial walls.
During the surgery, the surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel, usually from the chest, leg, or arm, and grafts it onto the blocked coronary artery. This new vessel creates a detour, or bypass, which allows blood to flow freely around the blockage and reach the heart muscle. In a double coronary bypass surgery, two blockages are treated simultaneously, typically one on the left side and one on the right side of the heart.
The procedure is usually conducted under general anesthesia, and the surgeon may use a heart-lung machine to temporarily take over the heart's pumping and oxygenation functions. This allows the surgeon to operate on a still and bloodless heart, improving surgical precision.
Double coronary bypass surgery is a complex and invasive procedure, often reserved for individuals with extensive coronary artery disease or multiple blockages. It is considered a cornerstone treatment option for relieving symptoms of angina, reducing the risk of heart attack, improving overall heart function, and enhancing the patient's quality of life. However, like any major surgery, it involves certain risks and potential complications, such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Close post-operative care and lifestyle modifications are crucial for long-term success and recovery.
