What does a coronary artery bypass graft accomplish?

A coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is a surgical procedure designed to restore normal blood flow to the heart by bypassing blocked coronary arteries. When certain coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup from atherosclerosis, the heart muscle may not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. The bypass grafting procedure involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body, such as a leg or chest, and attaching it to the coronary artery segment beyond the blockage. This creates an alternative route for blood to flow to the heart muscle, significantly improving oxygen delivery and potentially alleviating symptoms like chest pain (angina) and increasing overall heart function.

It's important to differentiate this procedure from other surgical interventions, such as the removal of the appendix, gallbladder, or repair of a hernia, which deal with different anatomical areas and conditions altogether. CABG specifically targets cardiovascular health and is a critical intervention for patients with significant coronary artery disease.