Heart Bypass Operation - Preparation

For a heart bypass operation, medical examinations and their corresponding results are necessary. These examinations include, among others, a lung function examination, a determination of blood levels, and an ECG (electrocardiogram) which is often accompanied by a stress test ECG in order to illustrate the blood flow to the heart. In some cases an x-ray examination as well as an ultrasound test of the arteries that supply the brain is also conducted. If leg veins are to be used, the condition of your leg veins and whether you suffer from varicose veins should be clarified with a corresponding examination (phlebography). The most important precondition for the procedure is, in addition to these examinations, a cardiac catheter examination in which coronaries can be selectively displayed and the localization and strength of constrictions and/or closures can be judged. This is essential for the planning and execution of the operation.⁴

In addition to these examinations, you will need to actively contribute to the process prior to the operation: good operational preparation can reduce operational risk. Medications that contain acetylsalicylic acid counteract blood clotting and should be discontinued 7-10 days before the procedure. Being overweight harbors an increased operational risk. Thus, you should begin a weight loss program prior to the procedure and subsequently endeavor to maintain normal weight. Smoking is a possible cause of arteriosclerosis and should be given up prior to the procedure (increased operational risk!), if not altogether.

Please make sure that you are examined and treated by a specialist for any possible pre-existing dental damage (caries, dental root inflammations, etc.) or skin alterations. This will allow you to avoid having bacteria or infections enter the blood stream and cause dangerous inflammations.⁵

Please speak about these and other preparatory measures explicitly with your doctor.