Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition in which the coronary arteries and the blood vessels that supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked, preventing the blood supply to the heart muscle and causing insufficient blood supply to the heart. In cases where there are blockages or narrowing in multiple arteries, the doctor may consider performing a coronary bypass surgery (CABG). Today, CABG is often performed without a heart-lung machine, commonly known as off-pump CABG. This innovative technique aims to minimize complications associated with the heart-lung machine, reducing the risk of blood loss, experiencing faster recovery times, and allowing patients to swiftly return to their daily lives.
Dr. Chawakorn Leampriboon, Cardio Thoracic Surgeon at Vejthani Hospital, explains that coronary artery disease is a blockage of an artery that prevents blood flow to the heart, resulting in less blood supply. The blockage is frequently attributed to the accumulation of fats and deposits in the arteries, associated with underlying diseases like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes, alongside lifestyle factors such as smoking.
When blood supply to the heart muscle is deficient, symptoms such as chest tightness and shortness of breath may arise. In severe cases, the condition could escalate to acute heart failure. If you experience any suspected symptoms, consult a doctor immediately for a thorough diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
There are various approaches to address coronary artery disease, ranging from oral medications to balloon stenting aimed at widening the artery. The doctor will consider bypass surgery if blockages occur in multiple locations or arteries. This procedure is designed to create a bypass, enabling blood to flow through an alternative pathway instead of the original narrowed artery
Traditional Coronary Bypass Surgery: The On-Pump Approach
Coronary artery bypass surgery has been a longstanding and conventional practice, with On-Pump CABG considered as a cornerstone of cardiac surgery for decades. This technique involves a machine temporarily stopping the heart, facilitating a more convenient surgical procedure for doctors. However, recent research indicates potential drawbacks, as the heart-lung machine may induce inflammation in the body, leading to a slower recovery and impairing heart function. Additionally, it may impact platelets, potentially increasing the risk of blood clots and resulting in excessive bleeding after surgery.
Off-Pump CABG: A Modern Approach with Significant Advantages
In recent years, Off-Pump CABG has emerged as an alternative to traditional CABG, offering several advantages. Unlike conventional methods, this technique does not involve stopping the heart during the surgery. Instead, the surgeon uses specialized instruments to immobilize the heart in the desired position, allowing the heart to continue beating naturally throughout the surgery.
The benefits of Off-Pump Coronary artery bypass surgery:
- Significantly reduces the risk of complications associated with an artificial heart-lung machine.
- Diminish blood loss during and after surgery.
- Shortens surgical and anesthetic duration: The time spent in surgery and under anesthesia is notably reduced.
- Accelerates Recovery: Patients experience a swifter recovery process, leading to a shortened hospital stay.
- Faster return to normal lifestyle: Patients can resume their everyday lives expeditiously.
Off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery is a safe and effective treatment for coronary artery disease that requires the expertise of highly experienced surgeons because the precision and proficiency of these surgeons significantly enhance surgical success, ensuring the maximum benefits for a healthier future.
For more information, please contact
Cardiac Center, 5th floor, Vejthani Hospital 02-734-0000 Ext. 5300
Or call our English Hotline +66 (0) 85-223-8888
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