### What is Open Heart Surgery/CABG?
Open heart surgery, also known as Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG), is a procedure used to treat Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) or Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). These conditions are caused by the narrowing or blockage of arteries, which are the blood vessels that supply oxygenated blood to the heart. This blockage is due to the buildup of fatty substances called plaque on the inner walls of the arteries.
If this plaque breaks open, it can result in blood clots that block blood flow to the heart. Over time, the plaque can harden and narrow the arteries, making it difficult for blood to flow. Early signs of CAD or CHD include chest pain or discomfort, known as angina, which can eventually lead to a heart attack.
### Causes of Coronary Artery Disease
1. **Age:** The risk increases as you get older.
2. **Smoking:** Smokers are more likely to develop CAD.
3. **Obesity:** Being overweight or obese can contribute to heart problems.
4. **Diet:** A high-fat diet can negatively impact your heart health and lead to CAD.
### Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
Common symptoms include:
– Chest pain
– Fatigue
– Breathlessness
– Heart palpitations
– Swelling in the body
– Abnormal heartbeats
In some cases, symptoms are not noticed until the condition becomes severe, potentially leading to a heart attack.
### Treatments for Coronary Artery Disease
One common treatment is CABG. During this procedure, veins from other parts of the body, like the legs or wrists, are used to create a bypass around the blocked arteries. This allows blood to flow more easily to the heart. The heart is temporarily stopped during surgery, and a cardiopulmonary bypass machine is used to pump blood.
### Types of CABG
1. **Traditional Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting:** Involves opening the chest bone to access the heart, which is paused using medication. A bypass machine keeps blood flowing during the surgery.
2. **Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting:** Similar to traditional, but the heart continues to beat during surgery, avoiding the use of a bypass machine.
3. **Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting:** Uses several small incisions rather than one large cut, often for bypassing vessels on the front side of the heart.
### CABG Recovery
Post-surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for several days. Recovery varies per individual; common milestones include sitting within a day, walking after three days, and climbing stairs within five to six days. Returning to normal activities usually takes six to twelve weeks.
### Care at Home
At home, care involves managing surgical cuts, taking prescribed painkillers, wearing loose clothing, eating healthily, and avoiding strenuous activities like heavy lifting or vigorous exercise. Recovery is typically slow, with some minor side effects, but regular doctor visits can help monitor progress.
### Life After CABG
Post-recovery, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial:
– Exercise regularly, with walking being highly recommended.
– Avoid alcohol and quit smoking.
– Eat healthily, steering clear of junk and fatty foods.
– If overweight, work on losing weight.
– Regular check-ups and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels are important.
With these practices, life can return to normal after coronary artery bypass surgery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will ensure long-term benefits from the procedure.