Coronary bypass surgery

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Risks

By Mayo Clinic staff

Although they rarely occur, the most common complications of coronary bypass surgery are:

  • Bleeding
  • Heart rhythm irregularities (arrhythmias)
  • Kidney failure
  • Infections of the chest wound
  • Memory loss or troubles with thinking clearly, which often go away within six to 12 months
  • Stroke

Your risk of developing these complications depends on your health before the surgery. Talk to your doctor to get a better idea of the likelihood of experiencing these risks.

If you're having a scheduled coronary bypass surgery, your risk of death is usually low, but still depends on your overall health. The risk is higher if the operation is done as an emergency or if you have other significant medical conditions such as emphysema, kidney disease, diabetes or peripheral vascular disease.

MY00087

July 1, 2008

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