Breakdown (mechanical) of coronary artery bypass graft digital illustration

Breakdown (mechanical) of coronary artery bypass graft Save


ICD-10 code: T82.211

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Understanding the Breakdown (Mechanical) of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a surgical procedure that is commonly performed to improve blood flow to the heart. The procedure involves creating a bypass around a blocked or narrowed section of an artery using a graft. While CABG is a highly effective procedure, there is a possibility of mechanical breakdown of the graft, which can lead to serious complications.

The breakdown of a graft can occur due to various reasons, including clotting, kinking, twisting, or narrowing. When a graft breaks down, it can cause a blockage in the artery, which can lead to reduced blood flow to the heart and potentially cause a heart attack. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the signs and symptoms of graft breakdown and seek prompt medical attention if necessary.

  1. Chest Pain: One of the most common symptoms of graft breakdown is chest pain. The pain may be similar to the chest pain experienced during a heart attack and may radiate to the arms, neck, or jaw.
  2. Shortness of Breath: Another symptom of graft breakdown is shortness of breath. This occurs when the heart is not receiving enough blood, and the body is not getting enough oxygen, leading to difficulty breathing.
  3. Fatigue: Fatigue is another common symptom of graft breakdown. When the heart is not getting enough blood, it has to work harder to pump blood to the rest of the body, leading to fatigue and weakness.
  4. Swelling: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet may also occur when the heart is not getting enough blood. This happens because the body is not able to remove excess fluid due to decreased blood flow.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may perform tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or angiogram, to determine the cause of the symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

In conclusion, the breakdown of a coronary artery bypass graft can lead to serious complications, including heart attack. Therefore, it is important to understand the signs and symptoms of graft breakdown and seek prompt medical attention if necessary. By doing so, you can help ensure the best possible outcome and improve your chances of a full recovery.