Restoration of blood to the heart muscle after a heart attack. Prevention of a possible heart attack, if coronary arteries have narrowed. Breathing is performed for the patient by the anesthetist's machines. An incision is made through the breastbone, and the chest is spread open to expose the heart. The heart is stopped with a chemical solution that temporarily paralyzes the heart muscle fibers and the heart's temperature is reduced.
Circulation is performed by a heart-lung machine.
The bypass vein graft is sutured in place to allow blood flow to resume beyond the blocked area. After reheating the heart, it is given a mild electric shock that causes heartbeat to resume. The breastbone edges are rejoined with metal suture material, and muscles, tissue and skin are closed with lighter sutures. Probability of future heart attacks is reduced. Allow about 6 weeks for recovery from surgery.