What is indicated for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)?

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is primarily indicated for patients with significant coronary artery disease, particularly those with triple vessel disease. This condition involves the narrowing or blockage of three major coronary arteries, leading to a substantial reduction in blood supply to the heart muscle. CABG aims to restore adequate blood flow by creating alternative pathways for blood, thus improving myocardial perfusion, reducing symptoms such as angina, and decreasing the risk of myocardial infarction.

Patients with triple vessel disease often have multi-vessel ischemia, meaning that their heart muscle is at a higher risk due to the compromised blood supply from these multiple arteries. Surgical intervention like CABG can significantly improve their prognosis and quality of life, making it a crucial treatment modality for individuals with this condition.

In contrast, single vessel disease may be managed with less invasive interventions such as angioplasty or stenting, and while right main stem stenosis is a significant finding, it does not always necessitate CABG unless it is part of a broader multi-vessel problem. Hypertension, while a risk factor for coronary artery disease, does not directly indicate the need for CABG as it is a medical condition that can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and medication alone.