Coronary artery by-pass surgery is an operation to physically bypass the narrowing in a heart artery.  This is recommended when the coronary artery disease is more severe and is affecting all three heart arteries.

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The procedure is a major operation where the chest wall is opened and the heart is stopped.  The patient is supported by a pump which circulates and oxygenates the blood in place of the heart and lungs during the operation.  Arteries from inside the chest wall, or veins from the legs are used to take blood beyond the narrowing in the coronary arteries.

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This major operation is not suitable for everyone and careful consideration is taken before deciding on this approach.

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These operations are undertaken by Cardiothoracic surgeons who are specialised surgeons who specialise in operations on the heart and lung.

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