How to Learn the Benefits of Bypass Surgery

Before deciding on bypass surgery with your doctor, you should weigh the benefits against the risks. Follow these steps to make an informed determination.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Ask your doctor about all the aspects of your heart condition and your all-round health. Be well informed about your own health before making a decision about surgery.
2. Research at the library or go online. Look for Web sites that contain information about the pros and cons of heart bypass surgery, such as Heart Surgery USA (see Resources below), which suggests that though heart bypass surgery can be dangerous, repairing the heart is more important.
3. Keep a list of all the potential benefits and risks, such as how a bypass will help you feel better versus the risks of surgery.
4. Take your list of pros and cons to your doctor and discuss them. Review the list after you talk to your doctor or a heart specialist about your health.
5. Talk to other heart bypass patients about their reasons for going through with the surgery. Express your concerns to them and ask about their post-surgery experience and recovery.

Tips & Warnings

• If your heart is in poor shape, then the benefits usually outweigh the negatives as long as the surgery will not endanger your life.
• Get as much information as possible regarding your condition. Don't allow doctors to rush or pressure you into a bypass operation.