Coronary artery bypass surgery covered by mandatory health insurance

13.05.2024, 11:41

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is one of the most effective treatments for ischemic heart disease. Under mandatory health insurance, this surgery is performed both with the heart beating and using the traditional method, which involves connecting the heart to an artificial blood circulation device.

From 2021 to 2023, a total of 8,153 coronary artery bypass grafting surgeries were conducted under mandatory health insurance. Of these, 861 were performed in state medical facilities supervised by the Ministry of Health and TABIB, while 7,292 were carried out in private medical facilities contracted by the State Agency on Mandatory Health Insurance and in medical facilities under other relevant state bodies.

The diagnosis of ischemic heart disease is based on echocardiography (Echo), electrocardiography (ECG), Holter monitoring, treadmill tests, laboratory tests (including troponin test), coronary angiography, and other diagnostic methods. It is important to note that pre-operative instrumental and laboratory examinations, such as Complete Blood Count and urinalysis, biochemical blood tests, HIV, hepatitis B and C screenings, syphilis tests, Echo, ECG, ultrasound, and X-ray examinations, are provided free of charge under mandatory health insurance.

In a beating-heart operation, the heart and lungs continue to function, allowing the circulatory system to operate normally. The primary advantage of this technique is the reduced risk of complications such as cerebral embolism, pulmonary edema, and organ hypoxia post-surgery. Additionally, due to lower blood loss during the procedure, blood transfusions are not typically required.

In contrast, when using an artificial circulatory device, heart activity is temporarily halted, and the cardiopulmonary machine takes over the pumping function. Advances in technology have minimized the potential risks associated with this method.

During aortic coronary bypass surgery, a bypass graft is placed between the aorta and the coronary artery to bypass the narrowed section. This can involve using a vein from the patient's lower limbs or an artery from the upper limb or chest area to restore blood flow to the heart. It is important to note that the removal of arteries and veins used for grafting is covered by mandatory health insurance.

Mandatory health insurance also covers resuscitation and hospitalization related to the surgery, including medications and medical expenses incurred during the operation. Additionally, insurance covers laboratory and instrumental examinations, manipulations, histopathological and cytopathological tests, and the cost of blood or blood components during hospitalization. The cost of feeding for the patient and accompanying children up to 12 years old is also covered.

CABG is performed under mandatory health insurance at several facilities, including the Yeni Klinika (New Clinic), Central Oilworkers' Hospital, the Scientific Surgery Center named after M.A. Topchubashov, Lankaran and Shirvan regional central hospitals, as well as at other medical facilities contracted by the Agency.

Ischemic heart disease is characterized by impaired blood flow to the heart, which affects the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. Patients often experience symptoms such as chest and back pain, shortness of breath, and a feeling of tightness with exertion. If left untreated, the condition can lead to complete vessel blockage and myocardial infarction. Timely intervention by a physician is crucial for preventing myocardial infarction, and CABG is one of the surgical treatment options for this condition.