In CABG, a blood vessel (graft) is taken from the chest, arm, or leg and attached to the coronary artery below and above the narrowed area or blockage. The number of grafts required depends on the severity of the condition. The procedure is carried out under anesthesia and takes about 3-6 hours. The hospital stay is 6-8 days and the first follow-up appointment is usually scheduled after 8-9 weeks of surgery. One can resume normal routine within 6 days but strenuous activities are avoided. Most people recover completely within 12 weeks.
After surgery, symptoms like chest pain and breathlessness improve and the risk of heart attack is lowered.
