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Stent and Bypass Surgery: What’s the Difference?

Learn the difference between stent placement and bypass surgery. Discover how each procedure may help restore blood flow to the heart and what might suit your condition best.

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Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt

Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025

Introduction

Heart health is crucial, and when blockages in the arteries restrict blood flow, doctors may recommend procedures like stent placement or bypass surgery. Both aim to improve blood circulation to the heart but work differently. If you or a loved one is facing this decision, understanding the difference can help you make an informed choice.

What Are Stents and Bypass Surgery?

Understanding each procedure might help you make a more informed decision.

1. Stent (Angioplasty with Stent Placement)

A stent is a small mesh tube inserted into a narrowed artery to keep it open. The process, known as angioplasty, involves threading a catheter into the blocked artery, inflating a balloon to open it up, and placing a stent to maintain the widened passage.

Best for: Patients with 1 or 2 blockages in smaller arteries.

2. Bypass Surgery (CABG Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting)

Bypass surgery creates a new path for blood to flow around a blocked artery. Surgeons take a healthy blood vessel, usually from the leg, arm, or chest, and attach it above and below the blockage, creating a "detour."

Best for: Patients with multiple or severe blockages, especially in major arteries.

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Heart Health Advice

Dr. Praveen Kumar, Cardiologist

Dr. Praveen Kumar

Cardiologist

25 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Cardiology)

Ghaziabad

Navaanya wellness, Ghaziabad

1000

800

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Key Differences Between Stent and Bypass Surgery

Here's a quick comparison to understand how the two procedures differ:

FeatureStent (Angioplasty)Bypass Surgery (CABG)
ProcedureMinimally invasive (no major cuts)Open-heart surgery (requires chest opening)
Recovery Time1-2 days in hospital, recovery in about a week5-7 days in hospital, full recovery in 6-12 weeks
EffectivenessGood for simple blockagesBetter for multiple/complex blockages
RisksLower risk of complicationsHigher risk due to the nature of surgery
LongevityMay need repeat procedures if blockages returnLasts longer (10-15 years or more)

Which One Is Right for You?

The choice between a stent and bypass depends on:

  • Number of blockages – Stents may be suitable for 1–2 blockages; bypass might be better for multiple.

  • Severity of blockage – Complete or widespread blockages often require bypass.

  • Overall health – Stents might be preferred for older adults or those with other medical conditions.

  • Lifestyle – Bypass requires more healing time but may offer longer-lasting results.

Your cardiologist will assess your condition and recommend the best option.

Life After the Procedure

Whether you get a stent or bypass, heart-healthy habits are essential:

  • Eat a balanced diet – Choose foods low in salt and cholesterol, and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

  • Stay active –  Gentle exercise like walking, yoga, or light cardio may improve heart function.

  • Avoid harmful habits – Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol might improve recovery.

  • Take prescribed medications –  Continue taking prescribed drugs such as blood thinners or cholesterol medication.

  • Monitor vitals – Keep an eye on your blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol levels.

When to See a Doctor?

The following symptoms may indicate complications and should be evaluated promptly. Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Chest pain or discomfort

  • Shortness of breath

  • Extreme fatigue

  • Dizziness or fainting

If you're unsure about stent vs. bypass, Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations with top cardiologists. You can book an appointment or get a second opinion online.

Final Thoughts

Both stents and bypass surgeries save lives by improving blood flow to the heart. The right choice depends on your specific condition. Work closely with your doctor, follow a heart-healthy lifestyle, and stay proactive about your heart health.

Consult Top Cardiologists

Dr. Praveen Kumar, Cardiologist

Dr. Praveen Kumar

Cardiologist

25 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Cardiology)

Ghaziabad

Navaanya wellness, Ghaziabad

1000

800

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Heart Health Advice

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya, Cardiologist

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology, FSCAI

Maharashtra

Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra

1100

90 Cashback

Dr. Praveen Kumar, Cardiologist

Dr. Praveen Kumar

Cardiologist

25 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Cardiology)

Ghaziabad

Navaanya wellness, Ghaziabad

1000

800

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Dr. Mangesh Danej, Cardiologist

Dr. Mangesh Danej

Cardiologist

8 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Cardiology)

Pune

Dr Danej clinic, Pune

recommendation

98%

(375+ Patients)

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Nataraja Setty, Cardiologist

Dr. Nataraja Setty

Cardiologist

21 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Cardiology)

Bengaluru

Sapphire heart care clinic, Bengaluru

700

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Cardiologists

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya, Cardiologist

Dr. Amit. A. Bharadiya

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Cardiology, FSCAI

Maharashtra

Surabhi Hospital, Maharashtra, Maharashtra

1100

90 Cashback

Dr. Praveen Kumar, Cardiologist

Dr. Praveen Kumar

Cardiologist

25 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Cardiology)

Ghaziabad

Navaanya wellness, Ghaziabad

1000

800

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Cardiologist

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee

Cardiologist

12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology

Kolkata

HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata

recommendation

90%

(25+ Patients)

1100

1100

No Booking Fees

Dr. Mangesh Danej, Cardiologist

Dr. Mangesh Danej

Cardiologist

8 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Cardiology)

Pune

Dr Danej clinic, Pune

recommendation

98%

(375+ Patients)

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Nataraja Setty, Cardiologist

Dr. Nataraja Setty

Cardiologist

21 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Cardiology)

Bengaluru

Sapphire heart care clinic, Bengaluru

700

No Booking Fees

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