Jackson, Mississippi Mayor Frank Melton to Undergo Heart Bypass Surgery

Jackson, Mississippi CBS affiliate WJTV is reporting that Mayor Frank Melton will undergo heart bypass surgery on Thursday. Previously it had been reported that Melton would have a bypass/defibulator implanted to monitor the condition.

Doctor's canceled the defibrillator surgery after they realized his condition was far more serious than originally believed. During a catheterization for the implant they discovered an artery blockage.

Heart bypass surgery is done when arteries become blocked and don't deliver adequate blood supply to the rest of the heart. Arteries can be blocked by plaque which is can be a buildup of fat and cholesterol.

The procedure is done by taking a healthy artery from another part of the body,oftentimes the leg, and creating a detour past the blocked artery. Melton was diagnosed with congestive heart failure more than a year ago but had only just decided to have the defibrillator implanted.

If all goes well with the surgery Melton should be released from the hospital in anywhere from three to five days. The total recovery time for bypass surgery is four to six weeks for someone with no other health issues. Melton had previously stated he would be back at work on Monday.

It is unclear how many arteries arteries are blocked but Mayor Melton'scondition is considered serious.

Melton is in Tyler, Texas where is his family resides. He had planned to check into East Texas Medical where his wife is on staff. Upon arrival in Texas the decision was to made to admit Mayor Melton into Mother Frances Hospital.

Congestive heart failure can be prevented by eating a low salt, low fat diet along with moderate exercise. Causes include untreated heart disease, excessive alcohol consumption, genetic defect, thyroid gland problems, high blood pressure and arrhythmia.

Risk factors are numerous. Being male, Black, obese or even pregnant can increase the risk of contracting the illness.

Congestive heart failure can be diagnosed by checking the lungs with a stethoscope or checking the legs and ankles for fluid.

City Concilman Frank Bluntson spoke with Mayor Melton. According to Blutson the mayor said he is doing "good".

City Hall issued a press release but refused to say much more about Mayor Melton's condition out of respect for the mayor's family.