Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
Restore vital blood flow to your heart and reclaim a life free from angina.
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Surgery Type
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What happens in this surgery?
- Involves a sternotomy (an incision down the center of the chest) to access the heart.
- A heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass) is used to temporarily take over the functions of the heart and lungs, allowing the surgeon to operate on a still, bloodless heart.
- Multiple grafts can be placed to bypass several blocked coronary arteries.
- Considered the gold standard for multi-vessel disease and complex cases.
Ready to take the next step?
Connect with a specialist to see if Coronary Artery Bypass Graft is right for you.
Post Surgery Recovery
What to expect after your procedure
Immediately after CABG surgery, you will be transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring. You will likely have several tubes and wires, including a breathing tube, intravenous lines, and chest tubes to drain fluid. Pain medication will be administered to manage discomfort. Once stable, you will move to a regular hospital room, typically staying for 5-7 days in total, where you will begin gentle mobilization and breathing exercises. Upon returning home, it's crucial to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding wound care, activity restrictions, and medication. You will need to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and driving for several weeks. Pain management will continue, and you may experience fatigue, mood swings, or difficulty sleeping, which are common post-surgery. Gradual increase in activity is encouraged, often with the guidance of a cardiac rehabilitation program. Full recovery from CABG surgery can take several weeks to a few months. Cardiac rehabilitation plays a vital role, helping you regain strength, improve heart health, and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. Adhering to medication schedules, maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress are crucial for long-term success and preventing future heart problems.
Hospital Stay
1–7 days
Varies by procedure
Initial Rest
1–2 weeks
Light activity only
Follow-up Visit
2–4 weeks
Wound check & review
Full Recovery
6–12 weeks
Back to normal activity
Recovery & Wellness Tips
- Undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation, including blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and a coronary angiogram to map the blockages.
- Discuss all current medications with your doctor; you may need to stop certain drugs, especially blood thinners, several days before surgery.
- Quit smoking and avoid alcohol consumption for a recommended period before surgery to optimize healing.
- Maintain a healthy diet and engage in light exercise as advised by your medical team to improve overall physical condition.
- Follow fasting instructions (typically no food or drink after midnight) on the day before your surgery.
