Answer:

Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is one of the most effective treatments for simultaneous narrowing of multiple coronary arteries or complex lesions. Its goal is to restore blood flow to the heart by using healthy blood vessels from the body to create a bypass around narrowed or blocked segments of coronary arteries.

Many patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery can live for an additional 15-20 years or more. Their life expectancy can be nearly comparable to the general population of the same age if heart function remains good. Patients who receive high-quality arterial grafts, do not have severe heart failure, completely quit smoking, and maintain their LDL-cholesterol levels within treatment targets, have a favorable long-term prognosis.

Doctors perform off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery for a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Factors determining life expectancy after coronary artery bypass surgery include:

Pre-operative cardiovascular condition: The extent of coronary artery damage, cardiac contractile function, and history of myocardial infarction significantly influence long-term prognosis. Patients who undergo surgery when their heart function is still good generally have better recovery potential and a longer life expectancy.

Overall health status: Coexisting conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, kidney failure, or chronic lung disease can increase the risk of complications and affect the durability of the bypass graft after surgery.

Patient age: Younger patients generally have better recovery capabilities and longer survival times. Many older patients also achieve excellent results if surgery is performed at the right time and cardiovascular risk factors are well-controlled.

Quality and success of the surgery: Successful surgery helps restore blood flow to the heart, reduces the risk of myocardial infarction, and improves quality of life. Currently, two common methods are coronary artery bypass surgery with a heart-lung machine and off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery. The off-pump technique is suitable for older patients, those with multiple underlying conditions, or a high risk of stroke. The use of arterial grafts, especially the internal mammary artery, also contributes to improved long-term post-operative outcomes.

Post-operative care and treatment: Adherence to treatment is crucial for maintaining graft durability. Patients need to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar; take medication regularly as instructed; maintain a healthy weight; and have regular follow-up appointments.

Post-operative complications: Complications such as surgical site infection, arrhythmia, blood clot formation, heart failure, or recurrent myocardial infarction can affect long-term prognosis if not treated promptly.

However, coronary artery bypass surgery does not completely eliminate atherosclerosis; it only helps restore blood flow to the heart. Therefore, after surgery, patients still need to maintain a healthy lifestyle, take medication regularly, and have periodic follow-ups.

Patients require adequate rest during the initial recovery phase. Their diet should prioritize green vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, while limiting salt, sugar, saturated fats, and processed foods. Quitting smoking, moderating alcohol consumption, maintaining suitable physical activity like walking or light cycling, and managing stress are crucial factors in protecting heart health.

For your 63-year-old father, if the surgery is successful, heart function is well-preserved, and he adheres to long-term treatment, his post-operative life expectancy could be nearly comparable to the general population of the same age.

Master, Doctor, Second Degree Specialist Huynh Hoang Khang

Head of Cardiovascular Surgery Department

Interventional Cardiology Center

Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City