Home›Medicine & Health›Surgery & Procedures›What is Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)?
◎ Medicine & Health·2 min·Updated Mar 15, 2026

What is Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)?

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

Quick Answer

A Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) is a surgical procedure that improves blood flow to the heart by creating a new path for blood to travel around blocked arteries. This is done by using a blood vessel from another part of the body to bypass the blockage. CABG is often performed on patients with severe coronary artery disease to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of heart attacks.

Overview

A Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) is a surgical procedure designed to improve blood flow to the heart. It involves taking a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body, such as the leg or chest, and attaching it to the coronary artery, bypassing the blocked section. This allows blood to flow more freely to the heart muscle, which can help alleviate chest pain and reduce the risk of heart attacks. During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the chest to access the heart and the blocked arteries. The new graft is then attached to the coronary artery above and below the blockage. For example, if a patient has a blockage in the left coronary artery, the surgeon may take a vein from the leg and use it to create a new route for blood to reach the heart, effectively bypassing the blockage. CABG is significant because it can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from severe heart disease. Many patients experience relief from symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath after surgery. By restoring proper blood flow, CABG can also help prevent future heart problems, making it a vital procedure in the field of surgery and heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Like any major surgery, CABG comes with risks such as infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. Additionally, there may be risks specific to heart surgery, such as heart attack or stroke during or after the procedure.
Recovery time after CABG can vary, but most patients stay in the hospital for about 3 to 7 days. Full recovery can take several weeks to months, during which patients may need to gradually increase their activity levels and follow a cardiac rehabilitation program.
Candidates for CABG typically include individuals with severe coronary artery disease that cannot be treated effectively with medications or less invasive procedures. Doctors consider factors like the extent of artery blockages, overall heart function, and the patient's general health when determining if CABG is appropriate.