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What tests are routine after bypass surgery?
I had a 3X bypass a year ago and am doing great! But I had a calcium score of 5000... yes that's with three zeros. I'm 67, slightly overweight.
I'm taking a statin. My LDL has always been good but now it's 22. HDL 40, triglycerides 85, blood pressure in the 110/65 ballpark.
At my 6 month follow-up the Dr. did no tests. I'm wondering what tests he should be doing to make sure I'm not building up more plaque?
Or do I just wait and see if symptoms come up again?
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congradulations on doing well. What is important in the calcium score is what type of calcium is it: soft or calcified which is considered safer.
I would talk to your primary about the big increase and go from there.
Your HDL is low. What type of diet are you on? Grains, sugars and carbs can increase it - all foods that increase inflammation in the arteries that can build calcium.
Hi @swcoop, welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. It’s encouraging to hear you’re doing so well a year after triple bypass surgery!
You raise a good question about what follow-up should look like when you’re feeling well but have a history of significant coronary artery disease.
From what I understand, routine follow-up often focuses on symptoms, blood pressure, cholesterol management, medications, and lifestyle rather than repeating calcium scores or performing imaging tests when there are no new concerns.
A coronary calcium score measures calcified plaque, but it doesn’t tell us whether bypass grafts are open or whether new blockages are developing.
Have you had a chance to ask your cardiologist what the long-term follow-up plan is for you? What concerns you most about your heart health going forward?