How to Recover From Bypass Surgery

The time it takes to recover from bypass surgery will vary from one patient to the next. Depending on the amount of damage to the heart and the number of bypass grafts that are required, recovery can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Most patients can expect to be able to return to work in about 6 weeks following surgery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Recover from Bypass Surgery

1. Expect to spend between 12 and 24 hours in a cardiac surgical intensive care unit following bypass surgery. It is necessary to remain on continual monitoring to evaluate your blood pressure and heart rate. In addition, you will have an endotracheal tube (breathing tube) until you are able to breathe without mechanical assistance.
2. Prepare for soreness in the incision areas. If a portion of the blood vessel in the leg was used during bypass surgery, this will likely be tender for several days. Medication will be given to keep the pain under control.
3. Plan on staying in the hospital for 3 to 5 days. If the surgery was unusually difficult or complications developed, a longer stay may be required.
4. Expect possible side effects of the bypass surgery such as difficulty sleeping, poor appetite, constipation, fatigue and some temporary memory loss to be present during the recovery process at home. These may last up to 6 weeks or more.
5. Make plans to participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program. This is a specialized program to improve the physical and mental status following heart surgery. Stress management, diet and exercise are all a part of cardiac rehab.
6. Take steps to minimize the risk of future bypass surgery. While you recover, stop smoking if you're a smoker. Establish an exercise routine and eat a heart-healthy diet.
7. Stay active. While it will be necessary to take it easy for a few days, mobility will help you recover. Observe the limitations such as lifting objects over 20 pounds (or whatever weight your doctor orders) and refrain from driving until released by your doctor. Walking is one of the most recommended activities in the recovery from bypass surgery.
8. Practice good stress management techniques. One of the greatest hindrances to recovery following bypass surgery is exposure to stress. Occupy your mind with things that are relaxing and spend time with people you enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• Take all medications as they are prescribed by your doctor. Stopping a medication without discussing it with your doctor could put you at risk for undesirable consequences.