Overview and Facts about Arterial Bypass Surgery
Arterial bypass surgery is a form of cardiac surgery that is performed to treat narrowed or blocked arteries.
In this procedure, the surgeon bypasses the blockage and creates a new route for blood to flow. The lining of healthy arteries is smooth and unobstructed, but a disease called atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) can cause them to become narrowed or completely blocked. This is due to the build-up of a substance known as arterial plaque, which is comprised of calcium, cholesterol and fibrous tissues.
As plaque increases, it causes the arteries to narrow and stiffen. Over time, the arteries will no longer be able to provide sufficient oxygen to your organs and muscles.
What to Expect during Arterial Bypass Surgery
Your arterial bypass surgery will be performed by a vascular surgeon. Prior to the surgery, you will be given a general anesthetic so you will not feel any discomfort.
Then, your surgeon will use an accessory vein taken from your body to complete the procedure. If one is not readily available, a synthetic graft will be used. After making a small incision in the blocked artery, the surgeon will stitch one end of the graft to a point above the blockage and the other end to a blood vessel below the blockage, creating a new pathway for the blood flow.
Depending on the condition of your general health, the location of the blockage and the distance the surgeon needs to bypass, the procedure can take between two and six hours.
After the surgery is completed, your vascular surgeon will explain how you should look after the incision site as it heals. Your surgeon will also tell you when you can resume your normal activities.
You will need several follow-up visits so that your doctor can make sure that the graft is working properly.
