Heart bypass surgery — also known as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) — is a procedure used to treat blocked or narrowed arteries that supply blood to your heart. When these arteries become clogged with plaque (a buildup of cholesterol and other substances), blood flow is reduced, increasing the risk of heart attack and chest pain (angina).
Bypass surgery creates a new route (“bypass”) around the blockage using a healthy blood vessel taken from your leg, arm, or chest. This allows oxygen-rich blood to reach the heart muscle again, improving symptoms and reducing the risk of future heart problems.
Each year, thousands of Canadians undergo successful bypass surgery — often after experiencing angina, a heart attack, or when other treatments like stents are not suitable.
Your cardiologist may recommend bypass surgery if:
At Cardiology Associates of Niagara, we work closely with cardiac surgeons and imaging specialists to determine the best treatment approach for each individual.
Bypass surgery is performed in a hospital by a cardiac surgeon, usually under general anesthesia. Most procedures take between 3 and 6 hours depending on the number of arteries being bypassed.
After surgery, you will typically spend a few days in the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring, followed by additional recovery time in the hospital. Most patients return home within 5 to 10 days, with full recovery taking several weeks.
Many people begin to notice improvements in symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath within a few weeks of surgery.
The operation is only part of the journey. Long-term success depends on protecting your heart and preventing new blockages. This includes:
Our team provides follow-up care, testing, and support to help you regain strength and confidence after bypass surgery — and to reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
