What is the life expectancy with a bypass?
Life expectancy with a bypass depends on many different factors, which is why it is not possible to make a general statement about life expectancy. Of course, it is true that a bypass operation prolongs life expectancy when compared to people who do not receive an operation. The survival of the bypass varies depending on whether arteries or veins are used.
In general, arteries last longer; in the case of veins, about 30% of the vessels are clogged again after about 10 years. However, there are many people who live successfully with venous bypasses for over 20 years. There are some studies that compare stent placement with bypass surgery.
However, these studies do not provide reliable data suggesting the superiority of either procedure. It can therefore be assumed that life expectancy with a bypass is comparable to life expectancy after stent placement. Overall, life expectancy is particularly dependent on other diseases such as hypercholesterolemia (high blood lipid levels) or diabetes mellitus. It also plays a major role in whether affected individuals change their lifestyle through a healthy diet and physical activity.