If one has undergone open heart bypass surgery, they must know that it is a major procedure. Bypass surgery, or CABG, is performed when plaque builds up in the heart’s blood vessels and limits the flow of blood to and from the heart. When plaque accumulates in the blood vessels of the heart, it is necessary to conduct CABG to restore blood flow to and from the heart. The heart muscle can weaken and cause pain or shortness of breath if blood isn't flowing efficiently. If the blood flow is limited, it could lead to a heart attack too. During a heart bypass surgery, the healthy blood vessels are used to create a separate pathway for the blood to restore the blood supply to the heart muscle. This makes the heart function more effectively.
To provide crucial insights about open heart bypass surgery, Dr. Sujay Shad, a leading heart surgery doctor, has explained the same in this article. The expert heart specialist practices at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and can be consulted to get the best open heart surgery in Delhi. Read on for more details.
Why is Heart Bypass Surgery Considered important?
The heart has three main coronary arteries. Fatty deposits can form inside these arteries and lead to coronary heart disease and reduced blood flow to the heart. When this happens, one experiences chest pain or shortness of breath, which could also lead to a heart attack. The number of blocked arteries determines whether one has single, double, or triple artery disease. Heart bypass surgery also helps to alleviate symptoms of coronary heart disease and lowers the risk of a heart attack.
Can One Live a Long Life With Open Heart Bypass Surgery?
Yes, it is possible to live a long life after undergoing open heart bypass surgery. Open heart bypass surgery, also known as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a common procedure that helps treat coronary artery disease. During this surgery, the surgeon creates new bypasses for the blood to flow around the blocked coronary arteries and improves blood flow to the heart muscle. The success of open heart bypass surgery depends on several factors, including the overall health of the patient, the severity of the coronary artery disease, the number of arteries bypassed, adherence to medical advice and medications, and lifestyle choices after surgery.
How to Keep the Heart Healthy After CABG
According to Dr. Sujay Shad, a heart surgery doctor in India, one needs to carefully follow the instructions to ensure proper healing without any complications. This will include instructions on building physical fitness, engaging in breathing exercises to strengthen the heart and lungs, and refraining from lifting or moving in ways that can impair the sternum's ability to heal.
Once the initial stage of rehabilitation is completed, focus on the healthy living basics:
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
Fill the plate with a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit the intake of saturated fats, added sugar, and excess sodium. Follow the diet as advised by the heart specialist for quick and effective healing.
2. Move the Body
During cardiac rehab, indulge in exercises and strengthen the body. Follow rehab sessions and incorporate more movement into the day with short walks. Get the heart pumping to keep it strong.
3. Take Medicines As Directed
One is probably given new medications to treat chronic conditions and maintain heart health following a heart bypass operation. Be sure to take the medications as prescribed, and if one experiences any side effects, talk with the medical provider.
4. Prioritize Rest
One might require extra sleep and rest in the initial weeks following surgery as they heal. After that, in order to maintain ideal heart health, try to get between seven and nine hours of sleep every night. Listen to the body and rest whenever it needs it.
5. Carefully Manage All Health Conditions
While one might not think of health conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol as being related to post-bypass recovery, they absolutely are. Anything that affects the heart can increase the risk of heart disease. To lower the risk, it is vital to follow the heart surgeon’s guidance for treating the condition.
6. Keep an Eye on Mental Health
Depression and anxiety are common among patients with heart health issues and those who have undergone cardiac surgery procedures. While one pays close attention to how they are feeling physically while recovering, pay attention to how they are feeling mentally. Do not hesitate to speak with an expert doctor if you are experiencing mental health issues.
Conclusion
Patients with cardiovascular disease benefit greatly from coronary artery bypass surgery. However, there is a chance that new artery plaques will develop. Therefore, it is essential that patients completely adhere to the recommended diet and other behaviors in addition to having frequent health examinations. One might require extra sleep and rest in the initial weeks following surgery as they heal. After that, in order to maintain ideal heart health, try to get between seven and nine hours of sleep every night.
However, one must understand that each individual's situation is unique and the success of the surgery can vary. Some individuals experience excellent outcomes and live a long life with open heart bypass surgery, while others could face complications too. However, with the advancement in medical technology and improved post-operative care can lead to better outcomes for many patients. If one is considering or has undergone open heart bypass surgery, it is essential to consult a heart doctor and follow their guidance to optimize the chances of living a long and healthy life.
Dr. Sujay Shad is considered the best heart doctor in Delhi who practices at Delhi’s most prestigious hospital, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. He is the Co-Chairman of the cardiac department at the hospital and performs several surgical procedures at the hospital, such as coronary bypass surgery, heart valve surgery, aortic surgery, aortic dissection, septal myectomy for HOCM, heart failure surgeries, LVAD, heart transplants, and many more. To make an appointment with Dr. Sujay Shad, visit Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
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