CABG in United Kingdom

How Should I Choose a Surgeon in the UK?

When selecting a surgeon for CABG in the UK, you should look for:

• Board-certified cardiothoracic surgeons: Ensuring they have the highest qualifications.

• Specialization and experience: Look for surgeons with a strong track record and extensive experience specifically in CABG procedures.

• Hospital affiliation: Research the reputation and success rates of the hospitals where they perform surgery.

• Patient reviews and testimonials: While not the sole factor, these can provide insights into patient experiences.

• Clear communication: A surgeon who thoroughly explains the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.

Best Hospitals for CABG in the UK

Top cities offering the best CABG in the UK include London, Oxford, Leeds, Cambridge, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Manchester. Here is a list of the top hospitals:

1. Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals, London: They perform a very high volume of complex cardiac surgeries, including CABG, and are renowned for pioneering techniques.

2. Barts Heart Centre, London: One of the largest cardiac centers offering comprehensive cardiac care including high-volume CABG procedures.

3. Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust/John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford: Offers a full range of cardiac surgical procedures.

4. Papworth Hospital, Cambridge: Has an international reputation for excellence in cardiac surgery, including CABG, and heart transplantation.

5. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds: Known for high-quality outcomes and a comprehensive cardiac service

Best CABG Doctors

1. Professor Toufan Bahrami, highly experienced in all aspects of adult cardiac surgery

2. Mr. David Lawrence, highly regarded for their work in high-risk cardiac cases

3. Mr. Kulvinder Lall, well-known for complex cardiac cases including CABG

4. Mr. Neil Roberts, experienced cardiac surgeon with expertise in CABG and other complex procedures.

5. Mr. Pankaj Mankad, known for complex cardiac cases including high-risk CABG and valve repair.

Types of CABG Procedures

While the core principle remains the same, there are different approaches to CABG:

• On-Pump CABG (Traditional): This is the most common method. The heart is temporarily stopped, and a heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass machine) takes over the functions of the heart and lungs during the surgery. This provides a still, bloodless field for the surgeon.

• Off-Pump CABG (Beating Heart Surgery): In this technique, the surgery is performed while the heart is still beating. The surgeon uses special devices to stabilize the part of the heart being operated on. This method may be preferred for some patients, particularly those with certain pre-existing conditions, as it avoids the use of the heart-lung machine.

• Minimally Invasive CABG (MIDCAB): This approach involves smaller incisions, typically between the ribs, and avoids splitting the breastbone. It's usually performed off-pump and is suitable for patients with blockages in only one or two coronary arteries, typically on the front of the heart.

The CABG Process

• Comprehensive evaluation

• Pre-operative instructions

• Cardiac rehabilitation consultation

• Surgery (Typically 3-6 hours)

• Recovery (3-7 days in hospital, longer at home)

• Consolidation and Final Recovery: Final recovery can take between 6-12 months.