Types of Heart Surgery Explained
Explore the different types of heart surgery—CABG, valve repair, aneurysm repair, minimally invasive options, and more. Learn who needs them and how recovery works.
Heart surgery can sound intimidating, but understanding the different types can help ease your worries. Whether you or a loved one is preparing for surgery or simply curious, this guide will explain the most common heart surgeries in simple terms.
Why Might Someone Need Heart Surgery?
Heart surgery is performed to treat various heart conditions, such as:
- Blocked or narrowed arteries (coronary artery disease)
- Damaged heart valves
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Heart failure
- Congenital heart defects (present from birth)
The type of surgery depends on the specific heart problem. Let’s explore the different procedures.
1. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
What is CABG?
CABG, commonly called "bypass surgery," is done when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become clogged. The
surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel (usually from the leg or chest) and "bypasses" the blocked artery, creating a new path for blood flow.
Who Needs It?
- Severe coronary artery disease
- Chest pain (angina) not controlled with medication
- After a heart attack
Recovery Tips:
- Follow a heart-healthy diet (low salt, low fat).
- Start walking slowly after surgery to improve circulation.
- Avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks.
2. Heart Valve Repair or Replacement
What is Valve Surgery?
Heart valves control blood flow in and out of the heart. If they don’t open or close properly, surgery may be needed.
Types:
- Valve Repair: Fixing the existing valve.
- Valve Replacement: Replacing the damaged valve with a mechanical or biological one.
Who Needs It?
- Leaky (regurgitation) or stiff (stenosis) valves
- Congenital valve defects
Recovery Tips:
- Take prescribed blood thinners if you get a mechanical valve.
- Follow up with regular echocardiograms.
3. Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery
What is It?
Instead of a large chest incision, surgeons use small cuts and special tools, reducing pain and recovery time.
Types:
- Robotic-assisted surgery (tiny instruments controlled by a surgeon)
- Keyhole surgery (small incisions between ribs)
Who Needs It?
- Some valve repairs
- Certain bypass surgeries
Recovery Tips:
- Less scarring and faster healing than open-heart surgery.
- Resume light activities sooner, but avoid strenuous tasks.
4. Aneurysm Repair
What is an Aneurysm?
A weak spot in the heart or aorta (main artery) that bulges and may burst.
Surgery Involves:
- Removing the weakened area and replacing it with a graft.
Who Needs It?
- Large or growing aneurysms
- High risk of rupture
Recovery Tips:
- Monitor blood pressure regularly.
- Avoid smoking to prevent further damage.
Consult Top Specialists
5. Arrhythmia Surgery (Maze Procedure)
What is It?
For irregular heartbeats (like atrial fibrillation), surgeons create scar tissue to block abnormal electrical signals.
Who Needs It?
- Severe arrhythmias not controlled by medication
Recovery Tips:
- Follow-up with a cardiologist for heart rhythm checks.
6. Heart Transplant
What is It?
Replacing a failing heart with a healthy donor heart.
Who Needs It?
- End-stage heart failure
Recovery Tips:
- Lifelong medications to prevent rejection.
- Regular check-ups to monitor heart function.
How to Prepare for Heart Surgery?
Before Surgery:
- Follow your doctor’s diet and medication instructions.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
After Surgery:
- Attend cardiac rehabilitation for guided exercise.
- Eat heart-healthy foods (fruits, veggies, lean proteins).
When to Seek Help?
Call your doctor if you experience:
- Chest pain
- Fever or infection signs
- Severe swelling or shortness of breath
Final Thoughts
Heart surgery can be life-saving, and advancements make procedures safer than ever. If you or a loved one needs
surgery, consult a trusted cardiologist to discuss the best option.
Need expert advice? Book a consultation with Apollo24|7’s top heart specialists today for personalized care. Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr Suseela
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Remya Rajan
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr Aswathy D C
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Dr S Lakshmi Narasimha Reddy
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Kondapur
Singam's Kids Clinic, Kondapur
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr Suseela
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Remya Rajan
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dr Aswathy D C
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Dr S Lakshmi Narasimha Reddy
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Kondapur
Singam's Kids Clinic, Kondapur
