Heart disease is a major health concern worldwide, with coronary artery disease being one of the most common types. When lifestyle changes and medications are not enough to prevent heart attacks, managing the symptoms of heart blockages, and surgical interventions become necessary. 

Heart blockages, also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), are a leading cause of heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications. When the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque, blood flow to the heart muscle can be significantly reduced or completely obstructed.

But with several options available, the question often arises: Which surgery is best for heart blockage? The answer depends on various factors, including the patient's overall health, the extent and location of the blockages, and the presence of other medical conditions. With the best heart hospitals in Chennai, even the surgical intervention became hassle-free and minimally invasive.

Let’s take a closer look at the different surgical procedures used to treat heart blockages.

1. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)

CABG

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is a highly effective surgical procedure for treating severe heart blockages. It involves creating a new pathway for blood to flow to the heart by bypassing the blocked or narrowed arteries. During CABG, a surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body—often the leg, arm, or chest—and grafts it onto the blocked coronary artery. This new vessel reroutes blood around the blockage, improving blood flow to the heart muscle.

Benefits of CABG:

  • Improved Blood Flow: CABG is particularly effective in improving blood flow to the heart in patients with multiple blockages or severe coronary artery disease.

  • Long-Term Relief: This surgery provides long-term relief from angina (chest pain) and reduces the risk of heart attacks.

  • High Success Rate: CABG has a high success rate, especially in patients with complex or extensive blockages.

CABG is often considered the best option for patients with multiple blockages or those with significant narrowing in major coronary arteries. It is also recommended for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments or have diabetes, as it can provide better long-term outcomes compared to other procedures.

2. Angioplasty and Stenting

Angioplasty and Stenting is a less invasive procedure used to treat heart blockages. It involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the narrowed coronary artery. A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to widen the artery, and a stent (a small mesh tube) is placed to keep the artery open.

Benefits of Angioplasty and Stenting:

  • Minimally Invasive: Unlike CABG, angioplasty and stenting do not require open-heart surgery, making it a less invasive option with a shorter recovery time.

  • Quick Recovery: Patients usually recover quickly and can return to their normal activities within a few days.
  • Effective for Single Blockages: Angioplasty and stenting are particularly effective for treating single blockages or narrowings.

While angioplasty and stenting are less invasive, they may not be suitable for patients with multiple or complex blockages. Additionally, there is a risk of re-narrowing (restenosis) of the artery over time, which may require repeat procedures

3. Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass (MIDCAB)

Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass (MIDCAB) is a variation of the traditional CABG surgery. It is performed through a smaller incision on the left side of the chest, without the need for stopping the heart or using a heart-lung machine.

Benefits of MIDCAB:

Less Invasive: MIDCAB is less invasive than traditional CABG, resulting in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.

Lower Risk of Complications: The procedure reduces the risk of complications such as infection and blood loss.

Effective for Certain Blockages: MIDCAB is particularly effective for patients with blockages in the left anterior descending artery.

MIDCAB is a good option for patients who need bypass surgery but prefer a less invasive approach. However, it may not be suitable for patients with multiple blockages or those who require extensive bypass grafting.

4. Transmyocardial Laser Revascularization (TMR)

Transmyocardial Laser Revascularization (TMR) is a surgical procedure used to relieve severe angina in patients who are not candidates for other types of heart surgery. During TMR, a surgeon uses a laser to create small channels in the heart muscle, which improves blood flow.

Benefits of TMR:

Relieves Severe Angina: TMR is particularly effective in relieving severe angina in patients who cannot undergo CABG or angioplasty.

Stimulates New Blood Vessel Growth: The laser creates channels that encourage new blood vessels to grow, improving oxygen supply to the heart muscle.

Minimally Invasive: TMR can be performed as a stand-alone procedure or in combination with other heart surgeries.

TMR is not a common procedure and is typically reserved for patients with severe symptoms who are not candidates for CABG or angioplasty. It is considered an option of last resort for patients with refractory angina.

Conclusion

Oxymed Multi-Speciality Hospital has emerged as a leading institution in cardiac care, establishing itself as the best heart hospital in Chennai. This accolade is not without merit; the hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by a team of highly qualified cardiologists and cardiac surgeons who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to patient care.

The Chennai's best heart hospital Oxymed's commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centred care is evident in its wide range of services, from advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive procedures to complex heart surgeries and rehabilitation. Oxymed’s focus on innovation and the continuous upgrading of its facilities ensures that patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments available.

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