Coronary Artery Bypass: When Is It a Better Option Than a Stent

With the rapid advancements in cardiac care, patients now have several treatment options for coronary artery disease, including stenting and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). But when is bypass surgery the better choice?
Dr. Mohamed Raafat, a specialist in cardiothoracic surgery, explains the conditions that call for this surgical intervention.

What Is Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)?

CABG is a surgical procedure in which a new pathway is created to allow blood to flow around blocked coronary arteries. Surgeons use a healthy artery or vein from another part of the body to bypass the blockage.

When Is a Stent Not Enough?

Although stents are often the first line of treatment, Dr. Mohamed Raafat notes several scenarios where CABG is preferred:

• Complete blockage in multiple major coronary arteries

• Weakened heart muscle combined with multiple blockages

• Diabetic patients with triple-vessel disease

• Stent failure or recurrence of blockage

• Severe arterial calcification preventing proper stent placement

Bypass vs. Stent: A Comparison

Postoperative Care

Dr. Mohamed Raafat emphasizes that proper post-surgical care is crucial for recovery. This includes:

• Intensive cardiac monitoring after surgery

• Anticoagulant medications

• Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle (diet, no smoking)

• Supervised physical activity

Is Bypass a Permanent Solution?

While not a permanent cure, bypass surgery offers long-term symptom relief and significantly improves the quality of life, especially for patients with chronic chest pain or shortness of breath.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience:

• Recurrent chest pain

• Unexplained shortness of breath

• A family history of heart disease

• No improvement after previous stenting
  Then a consultation with a heart specialist like Dr. Mohamed Raafat may be essential for proper management.