Breathing Tube
According to the Mayo Clinic, patients use a breathing tube in the mouth that is connected to a ventilator during heart bypass surgery. The patient uses the breathing tube for a few hours after surgery until he can breathe on his own.
Intensive Care
Patients spend one or two days in an intensive care unit after coronary bypass surgery. A patient's vital signs are continuously monitored by medical staff.
Hospital Discharge
Heart bypass patients remain in the hospital after leaving the intensive care unit, but they are often discharged within a week after surgery. Patients will be weak after returning home and will have difficulty performing everyday tasks.
Home Recovery Period
Patients will need to recover at home for six to 12 weeks. Patients may resume work, sexual activity and exercise when these activities have been approved by a doctor.
Risks
Complications from heart bypass surgery are uncommon. They include heart rhythm irregularities, kidney failure, chest wound infections and, in rare cases, impaired thinking, memory loss and stroke.
Tags: bypass surgery, after surgery, bypass surgery patient, care unit, heart bypass