What does CABG stand for in cardiac procedures?

CABG stands for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting, which is a surgical procedure used to improve blood flow to the heart. In patients with coronary artery disease, the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle can become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. CABG involves using a blood vessel graft, often taken from another part of the patient's body, to bypass the obstructed arteries. This helps restore adequate blood supply to the heart, reducing symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath, and lowering the risk of heart attacks.

This term is crucial in cardiac medicine as CABG is one of the most common surgical interventions for coronary artery disease, especially when less invasive treatments, like angioplasty and stenting, are not appropriate or have failed. Understanding CABG and its significance can help healthcare professionals better assess patient needs and treatment options in managing heart disease.