Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in India. When significant blockages are present in the coronary arteries and cannot be adequately managed with medication or angioplasty, Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) may be advised by a cardiologist or cardiac surgeon.
If you are considering bypass heart surgery in Chandigarh, it is important to seek evaluation from a qualified cardiac surgeon practicing at a hospital equipped with appropriate cardiac surgical infrastructure and intensive care support.
What Is Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery?
Coronary artery bypass surgery is a procedure performed to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. It involves:
- Using a blood vessel (graft) from another part of the body
- Creating an alternate pathway around blocked coronary arteries
- Restoring adequate oxygen-rich blood supply to the heart
CABG may help reduce symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and may improve survival in selected high-risk patients, depending on disease severity and overall health status.
When Is Bypass Surgery Recommended?
A cardiac team may recommend CABG in situations such as:
- Triple vessel coronary artery disease
- Significant left main coronary artery disease
- Persistent symptoms despite optimal medical therapy
- Failed or unsuitable angioplasty
- Reduced heart function associated with severe blockages
These decisions are typically made after detailed investigations and consultation with a Heart Specialist in Chandigarh, who evaluates diagnostic findings alongside the patient’s overall medical condition.
Surgical Approaches
Depending on clinical suitability, bypass surgery may be performed using:
Conventional (On-Pump) CABG
- Median sternotomy (chest opening through the breastbone)
- Use of a heart-lung machine
- Commonly used for complex or multi-vessel disease
Off-Pump (Beating Heart) CABG
- Performed without a heart-lung machine
- May be considered in selected patients
Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (Selected Cases)
- Smaller incision
- Limited surgical access
- Suitability depends on coronary anatomy and patient condition
Not all patients are candidates for minimally invasive techniques. The surgical approach is determined after clinical assessment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cardiac Surgeon
Patients may consider the following:
- Recognized medical qualifications
- Formal training in cardiothoracic and vascular surgery
- Experience in managing adult coronary artery disease
- Availability of multidisciplinary cardiac care
- Hospital infrastructure including cardiac ICU support
About Dr. Ashwani Bansal
Dr. Ashwani Bansal holds:
- MBBS – AIIMS, New Delhi
- MS – AIIMS, New Delhi
- MCh (Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery) – AIIMS, New Delhi
He underwent extensive surgical training at AIIMS, New Delhi, and has been associated with heart failure and transplant surgical teams during his training period. He has also received training in minimally invasive bypass techniques internationally.
Dr. Bansal practices as a cardiac surgeon and performs adult cardiac procedures, including coronary artery bypass surgery and valve surgeries, at accredited hospitals with appropriate cardiac surgical facilities.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery after CABG varies depending on:
- Age
- Overall health
- Extent of surgery
- Presence of co-morbid conditions
Post-operative care typically includes:
- ICU monitoring
- Gradual mobilization
- Medication management
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Lifestyle modification guidance
Regular follow-up with the treating cardiologist and cardiac surgeon is essential.
Conclusion
Bypass heart surgery is a major cardiac procedure that should be undertaken after careful evaluation and informed discussion with a qualified cardiologist and cardiac surgeon. Patients in Chandigarh and surrounding regions are advised to consult a formally trained cardiothoracic surgeon practicing in a hospital with established cardiac surgical facilities to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.