Less Trauma & Quicker Recovery from Coronary Bypass Surgery

Keyhole coronary bypass surgery is typically performed using small incisions on the side of the chest, between the ribs, or through robotic-assisted techniques. The surgeon uses specialised instruments and a small camera to perform the procedure. This approach avoids the need for a traditional sternotomy (breastbone incision) and reduces trauma to the chest.

The benefits of keyhole coronary bypass surgery include reduced surgical trauma, less pain, smaller scars, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, improved cosmetic outcomes, and a lower risk of infection. It also offers comparable long-term results to traditional open-heart surgery, including graft patency rates and overall outcomes when performed by an experienced surgical team.

While keyhole coronary bypass surgery is generally considered safe, like with traditional breastbone surgery, there are potential risks and complications involved. These may include bleeding, infection, damage to blood vessels or organs, graft failure, anaesthesia-related risks, and the need for conversion to traditional open-heart surgery in some cases. An experienced surgical team are best placed to offer the best outcomes if you are interested in considering keyhole coronary bypass surgery.

The team at The Keyhole Heart Clinic, led by world-renowned heart surgeon, Mr Inder Birdi, are pioneers in the field of minimally invasive heart surgery. They have a wealth of experience and expertise in performing multi-vessel keyhole coronary bypass and hybrid coronary bypass surgery. If you are considering having heart surgery, the team would be delighted to assess your suitability. 

Here is a testimonial from Richard Breen, a patient who underwent the first quadruple keyhole coronary bypass surgery in the UK, performed by Inder Birdi:

“I was diagnosed with coronary artery disease in 2016. I was told that I needed to have open-heart surgery, but I was very reluctant to have such a major operation. I did some research and found out about The Keyhole Heart Clinic. I spoke to Mr. Birdi and he explained the multi-vessel keyhole coronary bypass procedure to me. I was very impressed with his knowledge and experience. I decided to have the surgery and I am so glad that I did. The surgery was a success and I have made a full recovery. I would highly recommend The Keyhole Heart Clinic to anyone who is considering having heart surgery.”

Good candidates for keyhole coronary bypass surgery are typically those with blockages or narrowing in specific coronary arteries that can be effectively bypassed through minimally invasive techniques. The eligibility for the procedure depends on individual factors such as the extent and location of blockages, overall health, and anatomical considerations. A thorough evaluation by an experienced keyhole cardiac surgeon is necessary to determine suitability.

Recovery time after keyhole coronary bypass surgery varies depending on individual factors, but it is generally shorter compared to traditional open-heart surgery. As there is no bone cutting incision used with keyhole CABG unlike with traditional sternotomy, most patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few weeks rather than several months when compared to the breastbone procedure. However, the exact timeline will be determined by the patient’s overall health, the complexity of the surgery, and their individual healing process.

Keyhole coronary bypass surgery has shown comparable long-term success rates to traditional open-heart surgery in terms of graft patency and overall outcomes. However, the success of the procedure depends on various factors, including the patient’s overall health, the complexity of the disease, and the skill and experience of the surgical team.

Long-term effects of keyhole coronary bypass surgery are generally positive, with improved blood flow to the heart and relief of symptoms. Patients can experience long-term benefits such as reduced angina (chest pain), improved quality of life, and decreased risk of future cardiac events. Regular follow-up care, adherence to a healthy lifestyle, and ongoing management of risk factors are important for long-term success.

Alternative treatment options for coronary artery disease include medication therapy, percutaneous coronary intervention (such as angioplasty and stenting), and traditional open-heart coronary bypass surgery (sternotomy CABG). The choice of treatment depends on individual factors such as the severity and location of blockages, overall health, and patient preferences. Consulting with a cardiac specialist will help determine the most appropriate treatment option.

The cost of keyhole coronary bypass surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the hospital or medical centre, geographical location, complexity of the procedure, and individual insurance coverage. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider and insurance company to understand the specific costs and coverage associated with the procedure.