How Painful is a Bypass Surgery?

Managing Pain After Bypass Surgery - Tips for a Smoother Recovery

Heart bypass surgery, also referred to as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a major surgical procedure. The surgery reroutes blood flow by creating a new pathway around a blocked or narrowed artery using a healthy blood vessel. The surgery includes taking a healthy blood vessel from a different body part and connecting it below the blocked heart artery. 

Will You Feel Pain During the Surgery?

No. Since the patient is under general anaesthesia during the operation, they will not feel anything at all during the surgery. The real question is more about the pain after surgery and during recovery. Let’s find out.

What Kind of Pain Can You Expect During Recovery?

The intensity and type of pain can vary from person to person. Here is what to expect in different areas of the body:

1.Chest Pain

Your chest will likely be sore since the surgeon usually makes an incision down the middle of the chest and separates the sternum to access the heart. After surgery, the bone is wired back together and needs time to heal. Initially, coughing or deep breathing can be painful, but it lessens with time.

This pain can last for several weeks, but it usually improves with time and proper pain management.

2.Surgery Site Pain

If a vein is taken from the leg or arm to create the bypass, there may be pain or discomfort at that site as well. This area may feel sore, itchy, or even numb. Some people feel tightness or a pulling sensation when they move. However, the pain is normal and part of the healing process.

3.Muscle Pain and General Discomfort

After surgery, it is common to feel tired, weak, and sore in general. Being on bed rest for several days can also cause muscle stiffness, especially in the back and shoulders.

How is Pain Managed After Bypass Surgery?

Doctors take pain management seriously, and they create a plan to make the patient feel comfortable. Pain relief may include:

• Medications : Doctors provide patients with strong painkillers like opioids right after surgery. As the patient heals, the medications are gradually reduced or switched to milder ones. 
• Nerve blocks or local anaesthesia : In some cases, doctors may use a nerve block during or after surgery to numb the chest area and reduce pain.
• Cough pillows : A small pillow may be given to press against the chest when the patient needs to cough or move. This helps reduce pain and supports the healing of bone.

Recovery Tips After a Bypass Surgery 

Here are some recovery tips to keep in mind after the surgery and while recovering: 

1.Taking Medications

It is important to take prescribed medication as directed by the doctors after surgery. Consume pain relievers before doing any physical exercises and before the pain becomes too intense. 

2.Keep Incisions Away from Infections

An open wound is a potential hub for microbial contamination. All patients who had undergone a bypass surgery needed to keep the wound dry. Also, ensure that the wounds are cleaned with an antimicrobial. 

3.Follow a Healthy Diet

It is important to take your diet seriously after going through a bypass surgery. Make sure to eat nutritious foods during recovery, and avoid high-fat, sugary, or heavily processed items during the time of recovery. 

4.Do the Physical Activities Slowly

Exercise can be challenging because it increases heart rate. The patient’s family members can help keep track of their physical activities. The patient should not carry heavy objects and should not stand for more than 10 minutes or as suggested by the doctor. 

5.Get Adequate Rest and Sleep

Sleeping becomes tough for some people after surgery. However, your sleeping schedule will become normal after a few months. Doctors may prescribe sleep aids if necessary. Also, it is beneficial to follow a nighttime routine before sleep. 

Recovery involves discomfort, especially in chest and incision areas. However, the pain is manageable with medication, rest, and proper care.