Expectations after surgery:

In most people who have heart bypass surgery, the grafts remain open and functioning for 10 to 15 years.

CABG will improve blood flow to the heart but NOT prevent the coronary blockage from returning. Lifestyle changes are necessary:

• Don't smoke
• Eat a healthy diet
• Get regular exercise
• Treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol

Convalescence:

After the operation, you will spend 5 - 7 days in the hospital. You'll spend the first 2 hours in an intensive-care unit (ICU). In the ICU, heart function is monitored continuously.

You may need the temporary assistance of a breathing tube for a few hours after surgery. Two to three tubes in the chest drain fluid from around the heart and are usually removed 1 - 3 days after surgery.

A urinary catheter in the bladder drains urine until you are able to void on your own. Intravenous lines (IV) provide fluids and medications. Nurses watch the monitors and check vital signs (pulse, temperature, breathing) constantly.

When constant monitoring is no longer needed, usually within 12 - 24 hours, you will be moved to a regular or a transitional care unit. You can gradually resume activity. You may begin a cardiac rehabilitation program within a few days. The incision in the chest does not bother most people after the first 48 - 72 hours.

After surgery, it takes 4 - 6 weeks to start feeling better. During recovery it is normal to:

• Have a poor appetite -- it will take several weeks for it to return.
• Have swelling in the leg if the graft was taken from the leg. Raising the leg and wearing elastic TED hose for several weeks helps reduce swelling.
• Have difficulty sleeping at night -- this will improve.
• Have constipation.
• Have mood swings and feel depressed -- this will get better.
• Have difficulty with short-term memory or feel confused -- this also improves.

The full benefits from the operation may not be determined until 3 - 6 months after surgery. You may resume sexual activities 4 weeks after surgery. All activities that do not cause fatigue are permitted. Your doctor will help you determine the schedule for resuming normal activities.