Bypass surgery can help improve blood flow to the heart and reduce the risk of future heart attacks. Yet, a heart attack after bypass surgery is a severe and life-threatening complication. It may occur in certain people depending on the circumstances. Read further to learn in detail about heart attacks after bypass surgery.
Chances of having a heart attack after Bypass Surgery
After a coronary artery bypass graft, the heart and the coronary arteries that feed the heart with blood are both vulnerable. Especially in the first 30 days following the operation. Some patients who undergo the same, experience a heart attack soon after or during the operation.
The chances of a heart attack recurring after bypass surgery vary depending on several factors including-
- the severity of the blockages treated,
- the health of the patient,
- the skill and experience of the surgical team
What is the risk of a second heart attack after bypass surgery?
The risk of having a second heart attack after bypass surgery is relatively low, but it is still possible. In general, the risk of a heart attack after bypass surgery is lower for people who have undergone bypass surgery than for those who have not.
According to the American Heart Association, the risk of a heart attack occurring within the first 30 days after bypass surgery is less than 2%.
The risk decreases after the first 30 days and decreases over time. In contrast, it is low, with an estimated 5–10% of patients experiencing a heart attack within the first five years.
However, this risk does increase with age and underlying health issues. Some factors that may increase the risk of having a second heart attack after bypass surgery include:
- Not following a healthy lifestyle: It’s essential to make lifestyle changes after bypass surgery to lower the risk of having another heart attack. This includes quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
- Having other underlying health conditions: People with other underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, may be at increased risk of having another heart attack after bypass surgery.
- Not taking medications as prescribed: It’s essential to take all medications as prescribed by your doctor to help prevent a second heart attack.
- Experiencing stress or anxiety: High stress or anxiety levels can increase the risk of a second heart attack. It’s essential to manage stress and find healthy ways to cope with anxiety.
Developing new blockages in the coronary arteries: It’s possible to create further blockages in the coronary arteries after bypass surgery, which can increase the risk of having another heart attack.
