Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is performed when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become significantly narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle.
In patients with extensive or complex coronary artery disease, particularly involving multiple vessels, bypass surgery is often required to restore adequate blood flow and protect heart function.
The aim of surgery is to improve blood supply to the heart, relieve symptoms, and support long-term cardiac stability.
Coronary artery disease occurs when fatty deposits build up within the coronary arteries, narrowing the vessels and restricting blood flow to the heart.
This may lead to:
CABG is recommended when coronary artery disease is extensive or complex, and is often the most appropriate first-line treatment based on coronary anatomy and heart function.
This typically includes:
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic using a heart-lung machine.
Blood vessels are taken from the chest or leg and used to bypass the blocked coronary arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart muscle.
The number of grafts required depends on the number and location of blocked arteries.
In some patients, bypass surgery is performed alongside other procedures, such as:
Patients are monitored in a cardiac intensive care unit following surgery, with gradual reduction of support as recovery progresses.
Hospital stay is typically around one week, depending on recovery and overall health.
Early mobilisation begins under supervision, supported by cardiac rehabilitation guidance.
Follow-up includes cardiology review and ongoing management of cardiovascular risk factors.
Recovery continues over several weeks at home, with gradual return to normal activity. Long-term outcomes depend on lifestyle, risk factor control, and ongoing cardiac care.
Mr Ahmed Othman is a Consultant Cardiac and Aortic Surgeon with extensive experience in complex cardiac surgery, including coronary artery bypass grafting.
His approach is based on careful assessment of coronary anatomy, overall heart function, and long-term treatment strategy.
International training across Cairo, the Cleveland Clinic, and Royal Brompton & Harefield has shaped a measured and considered approach to surgical decision-making.
Consultations include detailed review of coronary angiography and clear discussion of treatment options and long-term considerations.
In some cases, coronary artery disease can be managed with medication or treated with stents.
However, when the disease is extensive, involves multiple vessels, or is not suitable for stenting, bypass surgery is often the most appropriate and durable treatment. This is determined through detailed review of your coronary angiogram and overall heart function.
The decision is based on the pattern and complexity of coronary artery disease, as well as your symptoms and overall health.
In more complex or multi-vessel disease, bypass surgery may provide a more complete and longer-lasting restoration of blood flow compared to stenting. This is discussed clearly during consultation.
The number of grafts depends on how many coronary arteries are significantly narrowed or blocked.
This is determined from your coronary angiogram and is explained in detail as part of your surgical planning.
Yes. Bypass surgery is often performed alongside other procedures, such as aortic valve surgery or aortic surgery, where required.
This is planned carefully to ensure a coordinated and effective overall treatment approach.
Coronary artery bypass surgery is a major operation performed to restore blood flow to the heart in patients with significant coronary artery disease.
All major cardiac procedures carry recognised risks. These are assessed based on your age, heart function, overall health, and the extent of your coronary disease. The aim is to recommend surgery where it provides a clear benefit in terms of symptoms and long-term cardiac stability.
Your individual risk profile is discussed in detail during consultation so that you understand the expected benefits and considerations in your specific case.
If you have been advised that coronary artery bypass surgery may be required, specialist assessment can provide clarity on the most appropriate treatment approach.
Consultations include detailed imaging review and structured discussion of your diagnosis and treatment options.