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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Health
Bypass vs Open Heart Surgery: What's the Difference? These life-saving heart procedures aren't the same. Let's clear up the confusion.
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Open heart surgery is any procedure where the chest is opened to access the heart. The heart may or may not be stopped during the operation.
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Bypass surgery is a type of open-heart surgery that creates a new route for blood to flow around blocked arteries. Often used to treat coronary artery disease.
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Doctors recommend bypass when arteries are severely blocked. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, or risk of heart attack.
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A blood vessel is taken from the leg, arm, or chest. It's used to "bypass" the blocked artery and restore blood flow to the heart.
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No, open-heart surgery includes other procedures, too, like valve repair, heart transplants, and fixes for congenital disabilities.
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During both surgeries, the heart may be temporarily stopped. A heart-lung machine keeps blood and oxygen flowing. It's like a life-support system during the operation.
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Bypass surgery recovery takes about 6–12 weeks. While other open-heart surgeries can take longer, depending on their complexity.
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Both surgeries carry risks like bleeding, infection, and blood clots. Patients are closely monitored in the ICU after surgery.
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All bypass surgeries are open-heart surgeries, but not all open-heart surgeries are bypass surgeries. Knowing the difference helps you ask more informed questions and better understand your care.
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