Heart Bypass Surgery
Alternate Names : Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery, CABG, Coronary Revascularization, Coronary Bypass
What happens later at home?
The recovery time at home will last for about 6 weeks. During this time, the incision will heal slowly, with some redness, tenderness and swelling present for several months. The person will be advised to:
have a check-up with the surgeon about 10 to 14 days after the surgery
take showers instead of baths for the first 2 weeks
begin a walking program
avoid lifting and straining for 4 to 6 weeks
not drive for 3 to 4 weeks
resume sexual activity as desired after the first check-up with the surgeon
rest twice a day for the first few weeks, and get 8 to 10 hours of sleep at night
expect some constipation if pain medication has been used often
This is a good time for a person to start thinking about changing his or her lifestyle and addressing any coronary risk factors that may have contributed to his or her heart problem. For instance, a person should:
quit smoking if he or she smokes. Smoking after heart bypass surgery increases the risk of the bypass artery clogging again.
control his or her blood pressure. If medication is prescribed, it should be taken as directed.
follow a diet low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium.
lose weight, if needed
walk or do other exercise each day
What are the potential complications after the procedure?
Potential complications after a heart bypass operation are:
infection
irregular heart beat, or arrhythmia
bleeding
clogging or blockage of the graft
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