What is CABG and how does it revascularize?
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is one of the most common and effective surgical treatments for coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD occurs when the coronary arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fat, cholesterol, and calcium—collectively known as plaque. This limits blood flow to the heart muscle, increasing the risk of angina, heart attack, and long-term heart damage. What exactly is CABG? CABG is a bypass surgery where the surgeon creates an alternative pathway for blood to reach the heart muscle. Instead of opening the blocked artery (as done in angioplasty), CABG uses a healthy blood vessel—taken from the leg, chest, or arm—o “bypass” the blockage. How does CABG revascularize? Revascularization simply means restoring blood flow to heart tissue. CABG achieves this by:
- Using a graft (new vessel) to create a detour around the blocked part of the coronary artery.
- Redirecting blood flow through this new channel so that oxygen-rich blood reaches the deprived heart muscle.
- Reducing the risk of heart attack, improving heart function, relieving chest pain, and increasing overall survival.
Why is CABG needed? CABG is typically recommended when:
- Multiple coronary arteries are severely blocked
- The left main coronary artery is diseased
- The patient is not suitable for angioplasty or stenting
- Diabetes or impaired heart function increases the risk of complications
In simple terms CABG works like creating a new road when the main highway is jammed. Instead of trying to clear the blockage, surgeons build a clean, unobstructed path—ensuring the heart continues to receive the blood it needs to function.
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