For questions or more information, call (615) 342-7310.

This procedure is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional, open-heart coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). When arteries become built up with plaque, restricted blood flow, chest pain and heart attack could follow.

This procedure uses a graft to create a path around blocked or damaged sections of the artery to restore blood flow to the heart. Your surgeon will use special tools through small incision ports in the chest and usually, the heart is not stopped.

Other surgical options include conventional bypass surgery or an off-pump (beating heart) option where the heart and lungs will continue to perform during surgery. An appointment with a cardiovascular surgeon requires a referral from your cardiologist or primary care provider.

How it works:

  1. You will be placed under anesthesia and your doctor will make a small chest incisions.
  2. Your doctor will use special tools through small ports in your chest to do the procedure.
  3. A mechanical device will remove a healthy vessel from the chest or leg and connect (graft) it above and below the blockage.
  4. The graft will be stitched in to place, creating a new pathway for fresh blood.
  5. Oxygen-rich blood will pump through the strong, new graft to the rest of the body.
  6. Your Heart Team will closely monitor and partner with you to create a custom plan for recovery and rehabilitation.