How to Know How Long Bypass Surgery Takes

Bypass surgery can be a life-altering experience. How long it takes is just one of the questions you may want answered before undergoing the procedure. The following steps will help you explore the bypass surgery experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Surgeon

1. Consult your doctor or surgeon.
2. Talk to a surgical nurse. A nurse may give you information you didn't think to ask about.
3. Research your surgery on the Internet (see Resources below).
4. Ask your doctor to refer you to patients who have undergone bypass surgery and ask them to share their experiences.
5. Find a support group for heart surgery patients or, more specifically, bypass patients. These people, and the professionals who oversee these programs, can help answer your questions and offer emotional support.

Tips & Warnings

• The length of your surgery will depend on the extent of the bypass you are receiving. Average bypass surgeries take from three to six hours. Be prepared for your doctor or surgeon to say your surgery could last many hours.
• Your best resource is your surgeon. The person who will be performing your operation knows best how he or she works and how long the procedure usually takes. The surgeon is also familiar with the potential complications of bypass surgery and can give you an honest time estimate.
• Asking friends, family members and acquaintances about their bypass experiences can be valuable, but remember not to take everything they say to heart. Do your best to ignore horror stories (or ask your doctor the questions these raise for you).