Thinking about bypass surgery vs open heart surgery? Bypass surgery, which is often used to treat coronary artery disease, aims to open up new channels for blood flow around clogged arteries. In contrast, open heart surgery involves operating directly on the heart, which is frequently used to repair valves or congenital abnormalities. Both operations save lives, but they serve different purposes and employ different approaches. Consult with a physician to discover the best solution for your cardiac condition.