Bypass surgery involves entering the chest by dividing the sternum (breastbone) in half and pulling the ribs apart to expose the heart. Vessels are then taken from the shoulder and/or legs to use as conduits to bypass the blockages in your coronary arteries. You will likely be cooled and placed on cardiopulmonary bypass so the heart can be temporarily stopped to allow them to do the procedure. The procedure usually takes a few hours, and you should plan on spending about 5-7 days in the hospital. Recovery can take several months to regain strength and let your incision heal. Hope this helps. Best of luck to you!
kjc2012, I am not a doctor, nor do I have any medical training.
Also, reading your post, I know nothing about your condition.
Having said that and going from what you say about being "very anxious" you need to do a lot more reading about this subject to familiarize yourself with the procedure.
I don't know how many doctors you have seen, but I would certainly get a second and even a third opinion about your condition on this important planned surgery. Certainly seeing a second cardiologist at a minimum.
Bring all your questions and your records to that second cardiologist.
(I'm not talking about the appointment with the surgeon). But rather a second independent cardiologist to review your condition and choices.
Of course you may have already done this, but you didn't mention it in your post.
Don't just feel like you are a passenger on a train where you aren't in control. Get all your questions and concerns answered.
Now, soon a doctor will give you his trained response on this forum.
I wish you well.,