9 Complications With Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

3. Fever

Fever is an indication of inflammation or infection in the body. In some cases, fever is the first sign of a more serious problem. A low-grade fever and chills might be normal right after surgery, but if it occurs days or even weeks after surgery, it may be a sign of infection at the site of the surgery. A patient whose fever reaches over one hundred degrees should seek immediate treatment, especially if the fever is accompanied by pain or nausea.

2. Memory Loss

According to a 2015 Harvard study, memory loss and other cognitive changes might be an uncommon complication of coronary artery bypass surgery. A review published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that the procedure itself may not be to blame for cognitive disruptions as the narrowing or blockage of arteries also cut off the brain’s blood and oxygen supply, which may cause stroke and other cognitive impairments such as memory loss and eventually a stroke.