Surgeons often perform this procedure to treat severe coronary heart disease, which involves the hardening of the heart arteries due to the build-up of fatty deposits, called plaques, in the walls of the arteries. These plaques can build up, and eventually block the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. CABG treats severe blockages that are greatly reducing the ability of the heart to effectively pump blood throughout the body. It restores normal blood flow to the heart muscle and thus reduces the symptoms caused by coronary heart disease including angina (chest pain).
This procedure can also lower the risk of a heart attack, especially if you have diabetes. It also improves your chance of survival and allows you to return to a normal lifestyle.