My uncle is 64 and has a severe heart problem and diabetes for the last 21 years. For the diabetes he is on insulin twice a day. His heart blockages have increased to apx 80 to 100% and heart functioning rate is just a 15 to 18%. Also he has been on a pace maker since the last 8 years. The pacemaker has a life of around 9-10 yrs and is one which is used for retired, low activity people. Now given the weak condition of his heart, most doctors are not willing to take his case as they feel a bypass would be extremely high risk for him. He is getting severe breathing problems and cannot walk for more than 10 minutes at a stretch. That too he has to walk very slowly. Kindly suggest what should be done in this case. He is taking all medicines on time. Is there any kind of a treatment that can bring at least some improvement for him. It is only getting difficult day by day. Kindly suggest some appropriate treatment or tests.

This question is best answered by Physicians, in part due to his Diabetes.

Has he asked for a second opinion concerning the bypass?

I don't know where you are living but you have stated that your family is well off - it might be necessary for your Uncle to travel to another City or even another Country (if he can get clearance to fly) for that second opinion/diagnosis.

The fact that he is on insulin twice a day is rather meaningless without knowing his numbers.

My husband was diabetic, had 3 heart attacks and was also not a candidate for bypass UNLESS all other avenues were exhausted.

Just a few thoughts... I wonder if he has kept hisi sugar levels at a correct low level for all these years...

I think you should travel to ChicagoLand and have an evaluation by a young, top-qualilty cardiologist HE or she will tell you the truth about the risk of surgery; then, do the surgery if he wants to take the risk.

Be sure and do this.

Why do you only recommend Chicago? There are several wonderful hospitals which specialize in cardiology, diabetes... or both?

Is OP in US? Hard to tell because the post is over a month old.