Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Post-Surgical Complications

There are many signs and symptoms of post-surgical complications to watch for after discharge home from the hospital.

Helpful Highlights

  • There are complications associated with surgery, in general, and there are complications unique to bypass surgery (CABG).

  • Surgical site infection is the most frequent complication.

  • There are times to call the cardiologist or primary care provider, and there are times to call for emergency services (9-1-1).

Immediate Mental Health Support for You

Discovery compassionate therapy at Helpful + CIC, where your journey to well-being begins. Engage in individual and group therapy.

Find a Therapist

Surgical complications, in general

For any of the following symptoms, contact the cardiologist or primary care provider.

  • Increased swelling, redness, or tenderness around the incision site(s).

  • A change in color around the incision site(s), such as blue, brown, grey/green, or black.

  • Bleeding from the incision site(s).

  • Increased oozing of fluid from the incision site(s), especially if discolored or smelly.

  • New or worsened pain around the incision site(s), especially if not relieved with medication.

  • Altered toileting habits (especially if difficult or unable to pee or poop).

  • Swelling of the feet, ankles, and/or lower legs.

  • Fever*, or even below normal body temperature.

*Note that half of older adults aged 55 and over do not mount a fever response. (Fever is taken to mean > 100.4F/38C on 2 consecutive days or > 102.2F/39C on any one day.)

Post-CABG complications

For any of the following symptoms, contact the cardiologist or primary care provider.

  • Rapid heart rate or heart palpitations.

  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

  • Blood in urine or stool.

  • Grinding/clicking sensation in the chest.

  • Persistent fever or below normal body temperature that doesn't respond to medication.

  • Marked swelling of the feet, ankles, and/or lower legs.

  • Persistent shortness of breath during, or for a long time after approved activities.

  • A feeling of fullness in the chest.

Call for an ambulance (9-1-1)

  • Shortness of breath that does not go away with rest.

  • Chest pain that is not from the incision.

  • Difficulty breathing (labored or can't seem to catch it).

  • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded at rest.

  • Fainting or loss of consciousness.

  • Severe headache.

  • Drooping of the face or weakness on one side of the body.

  • Slurred or distorted speech.

  • Sudden onset of confusion or delirium.

  • Shaking chills, especially with an increase or decrease in temperature.

  • Rapid heart rate causing great discomfort.

About us

Helpful is an app to make caregiving easier. We integrate your loved one’s insurance benefits, medical records and caregiving guides into an immediate, accessible and user-friendly experience. Helpful supports your care needs by eliminating administrative tasks and providing technology to support your caregiving experience.

Get started for free