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ABI+

Coronary artery by-pass grafts

Date: May 2011

Definition:

The undergoing of surgery on the advice of a Consultant Cardiologist to correct narrowing or blockage of one or more coronary arteries with by-pass grafts.

For the above definition, the following are not covered:

  • balloon angioplasty;
  • atherectomy;
  • rotablation;
  • insertion of stents; and
  • laser treatment.

No change since April 07

 

What does this mean?

If one or more of the coronary arteries, which supply oxygenated blood to the heart, becomes obstructed by the build up of fatty deposits angina can result and can even cause a heart attack.

A coronary by-pass operation involves inserting a short length of artery or vein, the latter usually taken from the leg, around the narrowed coronary artery thus restoring an adequate supply of blood to the heart.

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