Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, often sneaking up on individuals through subtle symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath. Left unchecked, it can lead to heart attacks, putting lives at serious risk. But thanks to modern medical advancements, coronary bypass surgery, often viewed as a lifeline for many, has become a proven solution for those battling severe heart conditions. Whether you want to regain your quality of life or avoid a future heart attack, this procedure can help restore the heart’s function and allow you to embrace life with renewed vitality. Thailand is a popular destination for coronary bypass surgery due to its low cost and high quality of medical care. The cost of coronary bypass surgery in Thailand ranges from USD 12,000 to USD 18,000.
In Thailand, the first close heart surgery was performed in 1953. The first period of heart surgery in Thailand was mainly for congenital and valvular heart diseases. It was not until 1974 that Professor Prinya Sakiyalak first commenced coronary artery bypass graft (CABG).
Let’s dive into what Coronary Bypass Surgery in Thailand entails, who needs it, and how it can make a life-changing difference.
What is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common heart condition caused by atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits (plaque) build up in the coronary arteries. Over time, the plaques harden and narrow the arteries, limiting the amount of oxygen-rich blood reaching the heart muscle.
Symptoms of CAD include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, and even heart attacks in severe cases. When lifestyle changes, medications, or less invasive procedures like angioplasty are insufficient, Coronary Bypass Surgery in Thailand becomes necessary.
Coronary bypass surgery, also known as CABG, is a life-saving procedure for individuals with severe CAD. CAD occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This restricts blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attacks. Coronary Bypass Surgery in Thailand aims to restore normal blood flow to the heart by bypassing the blocked sections of the coronary arteries.
The purpose of the procedure is to reduce the risk of a heart attack or other heart issues, relieve angina and other symptoms of coronary artery disease, and let the patient return to a normal lifestyle.
Who Needs Coronary Bypass Surgery?
Candidates for coronary bypass surgery typically include individuals who:
- Have severe blockages in multiple coronary arteries
- Experience frequent chest pain despite medication
- Have blockages that are too complex for angioplasty or stenting
- Are at risk of heart failure or have already suffered a heart attack
- Have a weakened heart muscle due to coronary artery disease
What are the Types of Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery?
Coronary bypass surgery is of the following types:
- Single Bypass: One blocked artery is bypassed using a graft
- Double Bypass: Two blocked arteries are bypassed
- Triple Bypass: Three blocked arteries are bypassed
- Quadruple Bypass: Four blocked arteries are bypassed
The number of bypasses performed depends on the severity and location of the blockages.
How is Coronary Bypass Surgery Performed In Thailand?
Coronary bypass surgery typically involves the following steps
Preparation and Anesthesia
The patient is placed under general anesthesia, ensuring they are unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
Harvesting a Graft
Surgeons use a healthy blood vessel, either from the patient’s leg (saphenous vein), chest (internal mammary artery), or arm (radial artery), to create a bypass graft.
Bypassing the Blockage
The surgeon attaches one end of the graft above the blocked coronary artery and the other end below the blockage. This reroutes blood around the blockage, allowing it to flow freely to the heart muscle.
Off-Pump vs. On-Pump Surgery
In traditional on-pump surgery, the heart is temporarily stopped, and a heart-lung machine takes over the function of the heart and lungs. In off-pump surgery (beating heart surgery), the heart continues beating while the surgeon performs the bypass.
Completion and Closure
After the grafts are in place, the heart is restarted (if on-pump surgery was used), and the chest is closed using sutures or staples.
The entire procedure usually takes 3 to 6 hours, depending on the number of bypasses needed.
Recovery After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery (CABG) In Thailand
Post-surgery recovery can be divided into two phases:
Hospital Stay
Most patients stay in the hospital for about 5 to 7 days. Initially, they spend time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for monitoring. Tubes and drains inserted during surgery are gradually removed. Patients are encouraged to walk and move around as soon as possible to prevent blood clots and improve circulation.
Home Recovery
Recovery at home typically lasts 6 to 12 weeks. Patients need to follow strict guidelines for medication, wound care, diet, and physical activity. Cardiac rehabilitation programs may also be recommended to help patients regain strength and reduce the risk of future heart issues.
What are the Benefits of Coronary Bypass Surgery?
Some of the benefits of coronary bypass surgery are:
- The surgery restores normal blood flow to the heart, relieving symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.
- Bypass surgery significantly lowers the chances of heart attacks in individuals with severe blockages.
- Many patients report better energy levels and improved physical activity post-surgery.
- Grafts used in bypass surgery can last 10-15 years or longer, depending on lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.
What are the Risks and Complications of Coronary Bypass Surgery in Thailand?
While coronary bypass surgery is highly effective, it carries some risks:
- Infection: Infection at the incision sites, especially in patients with diabetes or obesity.
- Bleeding: There’s a small chance of excessive bleeding during or after the procedure.
- Heart Attack or Stroke: Rare but possible complications during or after surgery.
- Arrhythmias: Some patients experience irregular heartbeats post-surgery, which may require treatment.
- Cognitive Issues: Memory loss or difficulty concentrating may occur temporarily after the procedure.
What is the Cost of Coronary Bypass Surgery in Thailand?
The cost of coronary bypass surgery varies depending on factors such as the country, hospital, surgeon’s expertise, and the complexity of the case. The cost of coronary bypass surgery in Thailand ranges from USD 12,000 to USD 18,000.
Below are approximate costs in different countries:
| Country | Cost |
| Thailand | USD 12,000 – USD 18,000 |
| Turkey | USD 8,000 – USD 12,000 |
| India | USD 5,000 – USD 10,000 |
| USA | USD 40,000 – USD 150,000 |
| Germany | USD 20,000- to USD 40,000 |
These costs may or may not include preoperative testing, hospital stay, and post-surgery care.
Top Hospitals in Thailand for Coronary Bypass Surgery
Some of the top hospitals in Thailand for coronary bypass surgery are:
- Sikarin International Hospital, Bangkok
- Vejthani Hospital
- Bumrungrad International Hospital
- Bangkok Hospital
- Siriraj Piyamaharajkarun Hospital
What are Some Alternatives to Coronary Bypass Surgery in Thailand?
In some cases, less invasive alternatives may be considered, such as:
- Angioplasty and Stenting: A minimally invasive procedure where a balloon is inflated to open up the blocked artery, and a stent is placed to keep it open.
- Medications: Drugs like beta-blockers, statins, and blood thinners may be prescribed to manage CAD symptoms.
- Lifestyle Changes: Diet, exercise, quitting smoking, and stress management play a significant role in reducing the progression of CAD.
Conclusion
Coronary bypass surgery in Thailand is a well-established and effective procedure for treating severe coronary artery disease. While it carries some risks, the benefits far outweigh them for many patients, leading to improved heart function and quality of life. After surgery, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can help prolong the benefits and prevent future heart problems.
If you or a loved one are considering coronary bypass surgery in Thailand, send your queries to EdhaCare. We will get you in touch with the best cardiologist to determine the best course of action based on your unique health needs.
FAQs
What is the age limit for heart bypass surgery?
There is no strict age limit for CABG. However, the risks and benefits of the surgery may vary depending on the patient’s age. Older patients may be at a higher risk for complications, such as stroke or infection. Younger patients may have a better chance of long-term survival and a better quality of life after the surgery.
What is the 5-year survival rate for coronary bypass surgery in Thailand?
The 5-year survival rate for coronary bypass surgery (CABG) is generally high, ranging from 85-90%. This means that 85-90% of people who undergo CABG will survive at least 5 years after the surgery.
What happens 10 years after a heart bypass?
The long-term success of CABG varies from person to person. In some cases, the grafted blood vessels may become blocked again over time, leading to a recurrence of heart disease symptoms. In other cases, the grafted blood vessels may remain open and functional for many years. Regular follow-up with a cardiologist is important to monitor the health of the grafted blood vessels and to manage any other heart conditions.
Can a person live 20 years after bypass surgery?
Yes, it is possible to live 20 years or even longer after CABG. Many people who undergo CABG live long and healthy lives. However, the long-term survival rate depends on various factors, including the patient’s overall health, the severity of their heart disease, and the quality of the surgery.
Is bypass surgery safe for a 70-year-old?
CABG can be a safe and effective procedure for 70-year-olds. However, the risks and benefits of the surgery should be carefully weighed against the risks of not having the surgery. Older patients may be at a higher risk for complications, but the benefits of improved heart function and quality of life can outweigh the risks for many people.
How many times can bypass surgery be done?
It is possible to undergo CABG more than once. However, the risks and benefits of repeat CABG should be carefully evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The decision to undergo repeat CABG depends on the patient’s overall health, the severity of their heart disease, and the success of previous surgeries.
It is important to talk to your cardiologist to discuss the risks and benefits of CABG and to determine if the surgery is right for you.