If your arteries become clogged with plaque, your heart and brain might not get the blood and oxygen they need. If left untreated, this blockage can lead to a heart attack or stroke. During a coronary artery bypass surgery procedure, a piece of healthy artery is attached above and below the blocked area. The blood flow is rerouted away from the blocked area and instead flows through a new healthier artery. In severe cases of artery blockage, this surgery can save your life and it is usually successful. However, as with all surgical procedures, there are risks. You need to discuss the benefits as well as the potential complications with your health care team so you can make the right decision for you.
General Complications
There are some general complications that can occur with any surgery. This includes the development of blot clots in the legs, fever, infection (either general or at the site of the incision) and excessive blood loss. The Baylor College of Medicine says that other risks include warmth, redness and/or swelling near your incision, or you might experience a discharge from the chest wound.
Other Complications
Complications from bypass surgery can occur because the heart is stopped during surgery while your blood is re-routed through a heart-lung machine. According to the St. Jude Medical Center, risks associated with this procedure include damage to the aorta, irregular heart rhythms and chest pain. You could also develop an atheroembolism, which means a piece of cholesterol or plaque can come loose and block an artery. Some patients also experience problems with their memory or concentration for approximately 6 to 12 months after surgery.
Major Complications
The Mayo Clinic states that severe complications are rare, but can include heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and death. In addition, the Texas Heart Institute claims that, in a small number of cases, the new artery becomes blocked or closed. There are several factors that can result in a graft becoming blocked such as the size, quality and placement of the graft. According to the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, you need to talk with your physician about your chances of major complications because each patient is unique. The risk of complications changes according to age, general health, smoking history, specific medical conditions, and heart function.
