Tuesday, April 4, 2023

What To Expect When Undergoing Open Heart Surgery?

The heart is the most vital body organ that regulates blood circulation all over the body. But sometimes, it starts creating issues in pumping and filtering the blood, leading to heart pain, strokes and heart failure. Open heart surgery is the most widely performed procedure to manage and treat various heart issues. 

In this blog, Dr. Sujay Shad, a senior cardiac surgeon, will discuss an insightful study of open heart surgery. The heart specialist will also talk in detail about what one can expect before, after and during this surgical procedure. So, read the post and learn about the benefits of considering open heart surgery in Delhi.



What is open heart surgery?


As the name indicates, open heart surgery is a surgical procedure to treat various heart's health issues and improve one’s quality of life. Open surgery includes the minimally invasive treatment of heart muscle, arteries, valves, aorta and other arteries connected to the heart. Following are the medical conditions that require open heart surgery:


Medical Conditions require Open Heart Surgery 


  • Coronary Artery Bypass 

Coronary arteries are the blood vessels. These blood vessels keep the heart healthy by supplying adequate blood, oxygen, and nutrients to heart muscles. Due to formation of sticky cholesterol caused by unhealthy lifestyle of smoking, oily food and various other things, this pathway gets blocked. This heart condition leads to severe chest pain, life-threatening heart attack and sometimes  death too. As a result an open heart surgery called coronary bypass surgery is used to create an alternate pathway to feed the heart.

    

  • Heart valve repair or replacement

The heart has four valves that regulate blood flow through the heart and to the rest of the body. The four heart valves are the mitral, tricuspid, aortic, and pulmonary valves. Heart valve issues like stenosis, regurgitation, prolapse, endocarditis etc can arise due to congenital disabilities, infections, and age-related wear and tear. Heart valve issues lead to serious complications, including heart failure, stroke, and even death. Depending on the severity of the issue, heart valve surgery is done if repair or replacement is necessary.


  • Aortic Surgery

The largest artery in the body, the aorta, transports oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body's other organs. The swelling of an artery is known as an aneurysm. Abdominal aortic aneurysms and thoracic aortic aneurysms can occur in two different types of aneurysms of the aorta.

One of the most common aortic issues is an aortic aneurysm, a bulge or weakening of the wall of the aorta. If left untreated, an aortic aneurysm can rupture, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding. As a result, open heart surgery for aortic surgery is performed to prevent  aneurysm and further heart complications.


  • Septal Myectomy for HOCM

Septal myectomy is a surgical procedure to treat hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM), a genetic heart condition that causes the heart muscle to thicken and obstruct blood flow. While septal myectomy is a complex surgery, Dr. Sujay Shad, a top heart surgeon in Delhi, performs it successfully and improves symptoms and quality of life for HOCM patients.


  • Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy

Blood clots form in the lungs and block the pulmonary arteries, leading to high blood pressure and strain on the right side of the heart. Such a heart condition requires Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) - a surgical procedure for treating chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).


  • Heart Failure Surgery

Heart failure surgery refers to a range of surgical procedures that can be used to treat advanced heart failure. These surgeries are typically reserved for patients with severe heart failure symptoms that are not responding to medical therapy. The most common types of heart failure surgery include heart transplant, left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). 

A heart transplant involves replacing a patient's diseased heart with a healthy donor heart, while LVAD implantation involves implanting a mechanical device to help the heart pump blood. CRT uses a pacemaker-like device to help coordinate the contractions of the heart's ventricles. Heart failure surgery can significantly improve eligible patients' quality of life and survival.


Expectations from an open heart surgery

When an individual is diagnosed with an unhealthy heart and receives a recommendation for open heart surgery, things the individual can expect are underneath:

  • Open heart surgery will be performed on the numbed body. For this surgeon will inject general anaesthesia first.
  • As the name indicates, open heart surgery is a surgical procedure; hence the surgeon will make incisions of 8- to 10-inch in the chest.
  • After that, the surgeon will access the heart. The surgeon will connect the heart to a heart-lung bypass machine. 
  • This machine removes the blood away and performs the surgical procedure of heart valve repair, coronary bypass, aortic surgery and any other. 


How to Preparation for open heart surgery

Usually, best heart surgeons in Delhi consider a candidate with normal blood pressure, diabetes and maintained weight for open heart surgery. As a result, a patient can expect mentioned below-mentioned guidelines to follow:

  • One must stop taking blood thinner medicines a week or two before surgery. 
  • One must limit the consumption of alcohol and smoking. 
  • One must avoid taking the stress of surgery and stay positive
  • Candidates can reduce weight.


Medical procedure before open heart surgery

When one qualifies the eligibility criteria for open heart surgery, heart surgeons do the medical checkup, during which one can expect:

  • X-rays of the chest 
  • The candidate's chest must be hair-free.
  • Sterilization of the surgical area with anti-bacterial soap or cleaner.
  • An intravenous line (IV) will provide the fluids and medications.


Post Open Heart Surgery Expectation

Depending on the surgery, one can expect to spend a day or more in the hospital's intensive care unit (ICU). A heart surgeon will monitor the patient's health throughout this time daily. Anytime the patient feels well, the surgeon releases the discharge papers based on the patient's recovery report and allows the patient to return to the hospital for regular checkups.

The cardiac surgeon and colleagues will go over aftercare instructions before discharge. Patients may, however, be provided with a unique, firm pillow to protect their chest when they cough, sneeze, or get out of bed.


Benefits of Open heart surgery 

Open heart surgery is frequently advised for treating heart attack, heart failure, valvular disease, and coronary artery disease. The procedure for performing a coronary artery bypass is the most frequently used. The quality of life is improved, and long-lasting results are helped by this surgery, which has a high success rate for treating serious conditions that pose a threat to life.’

Beyond this, open heart procedures have a lot of other advantages, such as:

  1. A decrease in chest pain 
  2. An improvement in respiratory ability.
  3. Bloodstream oxygen levels that are healthier
  4. Lessened risk of stroke or blood vessel issues
  5. Sustaining the benefits of open heart surgery involves lifelong dedication to certain lifestyle changes, each described below.

To know more about open heart surgery and when it is necessary. Book an appointment with Dr. Sujay Shad, best heart surgeon in Delhi at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital! 

Consult now for more information!

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

A Comprehensive Guide on Coronary Bypass Surgery

 Nobody is ever too old to take care of their heart. A healthy heart regulates a person's overall health as it pumps nutrition-rich blood across the body. As the main center of one's cardiovascular system, it is vitally responsible for life flowing throughout the body. However, the arteries get blocked due to various factors and demand coronary bypass surgery. 

This particular heart surgery cost in Delhi may vary from hospital to hospital and surgery to surgery. However, finding the right cardiologist for the best results is crucial. Dr. Sujay Shad is one of the most renowned heart surgeons in Delhi. He specializes in the comprehensive management of heart failure patients. Some of the necessary surgical procedures the doctor takes include HOCM, Coronary Bypass, and Aortic Surgery. One can find him in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi to know more about this life saving heart surgery. 



What is Coronary Bypass Surgery?

Coronary bypass surgery or bypass surgery is one the most common heart surgeries which must be performed by an expert and experienced cardiac surgeon such as Dr. Sujay Shad, the best cardiac surgeon in India. When the arteries are narrowed or blocked, restricting blood supply to the heart, this surgery helps develop a new channel to regulate a healthy blood flow. Sometimes, this surgery is performed as an immediate treatment for a heart attack. 

There are many reasons why one may get bypass surgery. Some of the reasons may include the following: 

  • When the artery supplies a lot of blood to the heart; (the left main heart artery) may have a blockage.
  • When the main heart artery is blocked. 
  • When a person faces severe chest pain as a result of narrowing down multiple heart arteries, the narrowing causes less blood to flow to the heart, even during rest. 
  • When a person has more than one heart artery, the lower left heart chamber also doesn't function properly. 
  • When the blocked heart artery cannot be fixed with a less invasive treatment called coronary angioplasty. 
  • An unsuccessful angioplasty without or with a stent. For instance, after stenting, an artery narrows again.

What to Expect Before the Procedure?

  • The healthcare provider will educate the patient about the medications they may have to take before the surgery and which ones should be stopped. 
  • The healthcare provider will guide you in preparing for the procedure and the directions to follow post-surgery. 
  • The patient will be instructed to eat and avoid specific foods. 
  • The experts will also disclose what the patient can experience during the recovery, including the recovery duration, how the patient is most likely to feel, and what symptoms to look for. 

What Happens During the Surgery?

Coronary bypass surgery is a complex one that can take several hours to finish. The exact time depends on the specific surgery and how many bypasses the patient needs. Below are the typical steps followed in most of these surgeries.

  • The doctors will give anesthesia to the patient and put them into a deep sleep. 
  • The patient will then be incubated to help them breathe during the surgery. 
  • Intravenous lines will be attached to the patient to infuse medications and other fluids into the body. 
  • A small tube called a urinary catheter will be inserted into the urethra until it reaches the patient's bladder to help them when unconscious. 
  • The patient will be on a heart-lung bypass machine which takes over the patient's lungs and heart and aids in pumping the blood. 

Blood Vessel Harvesting 

Coronary bypass surgery creates a bypass route for blood to reach the heart. The surgeon takes blood vessels from somewhere else in the body, such as limbs or legs, and uses them to develop the detour around the blockage. Multiple bypasses are required for multiple blockages. These are (4) quadruple, (3) triple, and (2) double.

Surgical Procedure

  • The surgeon will make the incision in the center of the chest to reach the heart.
  • They will split the breast bone from the middle, spreading and lifting the ribcage. 
  • The harvested blood vessels will be used to craft the bypass as soon as the surgeon gets to the heart. 
  • The upper end of the bypass will attach to the aorta (the large artery responsible for carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body). 
  • The lower end will be attached to the blocked artery past the blockage. 
  • As soon as the steps mentioned above are completed, the doctors will restart the patient's heart if it is stopped. 
  • The surgeon will lower the rib again and wire it back. 
  • The incision will be closed using stitches and staples. 

Recovery and Rehabilitation After the Surgery

  • After the surgery, the patient is shifted to the ICU for the first two days because the staff there is specialized in handling such cases. 
  • Once the patient is stable enough to walk to the bathroom and shows interest in eating (in the next 4-5 days), the doctor transfers them to a regular medical-surgical room for the rest of their stay. 
  • The average hospital stay may be up to 12 days.
  • After discharge from the hospital, the patients may complete a cardiac rehabilitation program to rebuild the patient's strength. 
  • An ECG, blood test, and a CXR are necessary for the first review after a week. Most patients can initiate short walks in nearby parks and gradually increase their physical activity. 
  • About a month after the surgery, Most self-employed persons who can regulate their schedules return to work by this period; employees take around two months to recover.

Risks Associated with the Surgery 

During the last 30 years, bypass surgery has already become extremely efficient and painless. Now doctors have better equipment, grafts, surgical and anesthetic techniques, risk factor control, and more efficient medications. Statistically, bypass grafts yield excellent results even after 15 years.

Most individuals, however, are still apprehensive about the complications of this surgery. Several centers across the globe would have been happy if 60-65% of bypass patients survived 40 years ago when methods were not as advanced.

Now, centers aim for nearly 100% survival post-bypass surgery. Most facilities in India have a success rate of more than 99%, while better institutions have a 99.6-99.8% survival rate. In general, this is a safe surgery.

Coronary bypass surgery is indeed significant, but it is safe and yields impressive results. It is better for multiple blockages in specific arteries and in cases where coronary angioplasty is not applicable. The best part is there is a lower risk for follow-up procedures. 

One can contact Dr. Sujay Shah at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital for coronary bypass surgery. He repairs the creator's creation, which makes his work unique. Regardless of the circumstances, he must remain motivated and determined, and his single goal is to make others feel better. Approximately 70% of his work is on coronary bypass surgery. Off-Pump CABG is nearly totally used nowadays. He routinely performs double or triple/quadruple artery grafts on younger individuals under 60 with severe coronary lesions. LIMA is utilized for all patients; young patients also get a RIMA or radial graft. Therefore, achieving less than 1 unit transfusion for CABG, less than 3% IABP usage, and less than 0.5% risk of wound infection with adequate monitoring and pre and intraoperative care. Contact them for details like heart surgery costs in Delhi and other such information on heart care.  

Book a visit today!

Monday, March 20, 2023

Understanding Bypass Surgery: What to Expect

The term "cardiovascular disease" is used to define a wide range of problems that impact the anatomy and function of the heart. Coronary heart disease is a type of heart disease that happens when the heart's arteries can't get enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Under these circumstances, a coronary bypass operation is carried out. It is a surgical treatment for the management of coronary artery disease. 

In this blog, Dr. Sujay Shad, the renowned heart surgeon in Delhi, will discuss the surgery's causes, procedure, and aftercare. He will also talk about bypass surgery cost in India.  

Keep reading to understand the bypass surgery procedure in detail. 




What is Bypass Surgery?

A coronary bypass surgery aims at creating a new route, or bypass, for the oxygenated blood to flow around the blocked artery to reach the heart. For this, the surgeon may take healthy blood vessels, or grafts, from the leg vein, arms, or chest artery. The surgeon attaches one end of the graft just above the blockage and the other end under the blockage. Blood travels through the new graft and around the obstruction to get to the heart muscle. 


Why is Bypass Surgery Needed?

Bypass surgery is needed to treat Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). When the coronary arteries, which provide blood to the heart and other parts of the body, get clogged with plaque, it results in CAD.

The deposits of cholesterol and other chemicals in the arteries make up plaque. Plaque formation over time causes the interior of the arteries to narrow, which can partially or completely obstruct the passage of blood via the arteries. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. It can affect any artery and lack of enough blood supply can increase the risk of cardiac failure.  

If the coronary arteries narrow or become obstructed to the point where one has a significant risk of having a heart attack, the doctor may advise heart bypass surgery. 

Also, if the blockage is too bad to be fixed with medicine or other methods, the doctor may recommend bypass surgery.

The doctor may advise a coronary artery bypass surgery in the following conditions: 

  • When the left main artery is blocked, which carries most of the blood to the heart muscle. 
  • When either of the main heart arteries is blocked partially or completely.  
  • When one suffers severe angina (chest pain) due to narrowed heart arteries. 
  • When one has several clogged coronary arteries, and the left ventricle is now functioning the way it should.


Who is At the Risk of CAD?  

The following conditions may increase a person’s risk of developing coronary artery disease: 

  • Diabetes 
  • High blood pressure 
  • Physically inactive 
  • Use of tobacco or smoking 
  • Family history of CAD 
  • High cholesterol levels 
  • Long-term kidney disease 
  • Obesity 
  • Stress 
  • Unhealthy lifestyle and diet 
  • Lack of sleep 


Preparing for Bypass Surgery  

Before the surgery

Coronary bypass surgery is a major surgery and may require many doctor visits and tests before the surgery. One may have to undergo the following tests before the procedure. 

  • Blood tests
  • Chest X-ray
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
  • Angiogram

Apart from this, one week before the surgery, the patient must stop smoking and stop taking anti-inflammatory or other blood-thinning medicines. The patient will be asked to stop eating or drinking anything the night before the surgery.


During the Surgery 

The patient will be provided medicine, fluids, and an anesthetic using an IV. Once the anaesthesia kicks in, the patient will experience no discomfort as they go off to sleep.

 

  • In order to begin, the surgeon makes an incision in the centre of the chest.
  • When the surgeon performs heart surgery, the patient will be connected to a cardiopulmonary bypass machine that pumps oxygenated blood throughout the body.
  • Certain treatments can be carried out without attaching the patient to a cardiopulmonary bypass machine or "off-pump."
  • In order to bypass the narrowed or damaged section of the artery, the surgeon next takes a healthy blood vessel from the legs, chest, or arms. The graft is connected with one end above the obstruction and the other below.
  • When the surgeon is done, the bypass is tested to ensure it works. When the bypass has begun to function, the incision will be sewn up, and bandaged. 
  • After this, the patient will be observed in the intensive care unit (ICU).


Bypass surgery is a complex and major surgery, and the recovery takes time. Dr. Sujay Shad observes his patient in his hospital for at least a week. In some cases, he carries on the remaining post-surgery treatment for about a month or even two until he is sure that his patient is completely fine. 

One can visit Dr. Sujay Shad, the top heart surgeon in India,  at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital for any further queries on the topic, like how much bypass surgery cost in India or any other cardiac disease. 

Thursday, March 16, 2023

Bypass Surgery: Detailed Information Shared by Expert Surgeon

 The cardiovascular disorders have been increasing rapidly, taking around 17 million lives of patients every year. The most common heart problems include arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, heart failure, heart valve disease, etc. The increasing numbers result from risk factors such as an unhealthy diet, alcohol and cigarette usage, and inactivity. Various procedures are performed to manage heart problems, such as coronary angioplasty, valve replacement, heart bypass surgery, etc.

In this article, Dr. Sujay Shad, the best Heart Surgery Doctor in India, discusses coronary bypass surgery in detail. Read on to learn more.


What is Bypass Surgery?

A heart bypass surgery is a procedure that helps to improve the blood flow and supply of oxygen through the heart. During this procedure, the surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel from a different body part and attaches it to the blocked portion by ultimately bypassing it. Diverting the blood flow with the help of coronary bypass surgery is a well-known treatment for atherosclerosis, which causes coronary artery disease. Individuals who are obese and have a high-fat diet are susceptible to such a disease. Although the open-heart technique makes this procedure invasive, keyhole and robotic surgery have been developed to lessen the invasiveness.


Who Needs a Heart Bypass Surgery? 

When a waxy substance known as plaque deposits on the arterial wall, the blood flow to the heart gets affected, which causes a heart attack. One needs bypass surgery if the arteries are narrowed or blocked and when medication and angioplasty fail. The cardiologist will ask one to undergo several diagnostic tests or procedures. Based on the test results, the cardiologist will determine how severe the heart disease is, the number of arteries blocked, and where they are narrowed. Depending on the tests, a CABG is advised.


What are the Different Types of Heart Bypass Surgery?

Depending on the blocked arteries, the surgeon will recommend the type of bypass surgery. These include: 

Single bypass: One artery is blocked

Double bypass: Two arteries are blocked

Triple bypass: Three arteries are blocked

Quadruple bypass: Four arteries are blocked


The number of blocked arteries affects the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack, heart failure, or other cardiac problems. More artery blockages also raise the probability that the procedure will take longer or be more complex. To learn about the Bypass Surgery Cost in Delhi, consult Dr. Sujay Shad, the best cardiac surgeon, at  Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. 

 

What Happens During Heart Bypass Surgery?

  • During the surgery, a breathing tube is inserted in the mouth, which gets attached to a ventilator. 
  • The surgeon makes an extended cut in the middle of the chest. He will spread a rib cage open to reach the heart. 
  • The surgical team uses medications to stop the heart. With the help of a heart-lung machine, blood and oxygen flow through the body while the heart stops beating. 
  • The surgeon will remove a blood vessel, called a graft, from other areas of the body, such as the chest, legs, or arms. The surgeon will attach one end to the aorta, a large artery that comes out of the heart, and the other end gets connected to an artery below the blockage. The graft creates a new route for the blood to travel to the heart. 
  • If one has multiple blockages, the surgeon may perform more bypass procedures during the same surgery. This includes double bypass, triple bypass, etc. 

In some cases, the surgeon may not stop the heart. These are referred to as “off-pump” procedures. Some surgeries rely on the help of robotic devices, and the surgeon will recommend the best operation for the patient.


What Happens After Heart Bypass Surgery?

The patient is taken to the intensive care unit (ICU) for monitoring the condition. One will be still breathing with the ventilator and may have after-heart bypass surgery side effects, including:

  • Pain with deep breaths
  • Pain when coughing
  • Pain at the incision site

These are normal and will disappear in a few days. The vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, will be regularly monitored while one is in the ICU for one to two days. After the condition becomes stable, the patient will be shifted from the ICU to the normal room and discharged in 3 to 5 days. Before leaving, the medical team will give instructions on how to take care of themselves and the dos and don’ts to follow after the surgery.


Are there any Risks Associated with Bypass Surgery?

Every procedure carries a unique set of risks. The risks of surgery depend on factors such as the patient's lifestyle, age, the extent of the disease, the surgeon's experience, and post-operative care. Some of the risks of coronary artery bypass surgery include the following -

  • Bleeding before or after the surgery
  • Respiratory issues
  • Blot clots that dislodge and lead to stroke or heart attacks
  • Pneumonia
  • Infection near the sutures
  • Graft failure


How Long is the Recovery of Bypass Surgery? 

Recovery from heart bypass surgery is a slow process that can take two to three months. After surgery, it's quite normal to feel sad and uneasy. The surgeon will set up several follow-up sessions throughout the first few months to monitor the progress. However, one should visit the surgeon immediately if one feels worse or experiences any symptoms. This include:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Fever above 100 degrees
  • Discharge or redness around the incision
  • Increased chest pain


What are the Tips for Quick Recovery from Bypass Surgery? 

  • Stay away from driving for 4 to 6 weeks.
  • Refrain from involving in intense workouts. One can perform cardiac rehabilitation instead if recommended by the surgeon. Cardiac rehabilitation is a customised exercise program offering lifestyle education and nutrition. After completing this program, one can work on fitness.
  • Perform household work when one recovers.
  • Most patients can resume their work after six days. However, if the job involves physical tasks, one must ask the surgeon before continuing the work. It can take three months to resume work with full strength.
  • The recovery time depends on the overall health, the activities one performs, and the number of bypass surgeries one has had.


For more information about bypass surgery, one can book a consultation with Dr. Sujay Shad, the best heart surgery doctor in India at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. 

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

How does open-heart surgery differ from bypass surgery?

Heart diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, and congenital heart defects can require surgical interventions to treat and manage the condition. In some cases, medications, lifestyle changes, and other non-surgical interventions may be sufficient, but surgery may be necessary for more severe cases or when other treatments have failed. Open-heart surgery and bypass surgery are two common types of surgeries used to treat heart conditions. It is important to consult with a qualified cardiac specialist to determine the best course of treatment for any heart condition.


In this article, Dr. Sujay Shad, a leading heart surgeon in Delhi, discusses these differences and a successful heart surgery cost in Delhi



Open Heart Surgery


Open heart surgery is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the chest to access the heart. During the course, the patient is put under general anesthesia, and the heart is stopped for a period, allowing the cardiac surgeon to perform the necessary repairs or procedures. The heart-lung machine is used to take over the functions of the heart during this time.

Open heart surgery is commonly used to treat a variety of heart conditions, including:

  • Coronary artery disease - when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become blocked or narrowed, reducing blood flow to the heart.
  • Heart valve disease - when the valves that regulate blood flow through the heart are not functioning correctly.
  • Aortic aneurysms - when the aorta, the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, becomes enlarged.
  • Congenital heart defects - when the heart has structural abnormalities from birth.

 

The procedure involves making an incision in the chest and cutting through the breastbone to access the heart.

Once the heart is exposed, the patient is connected to a heart-lung machine that temporarily takes over the functions of the heart and lungs. This allows the surgeon to work on the heart while it is not beating. During open heart surgery, the surgeon may perform various procedures, including:


  1. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) -This procedure involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body, such as the leg or chest, and using it to bypass a blocked or narrowed artery in the heart.
  2. Mitral Valve Repair or Replacement - It is a procedure that involves repairing or replacing damaged heart valves. The mitral valve residing between the heart chambers is the important valve. It regulates the blood flow in both directions; as a result, leaky valves are pretty standard. This valve issue can be repaired. Visit Dr Sujay Shad for Mitral Valve repair in India.
  3. Aortic Aneurysm Repair - It is a procedure that involves repairing or replacing the aorta.
  4. Congenital Heart Defect Repair - It is a procedure that involves repairing the structural abnormalities of the heart.


Bypass Surgery


Bypass surgery, also known as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), is a surgical procedure for treating coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. When this happens, the heart doesn't receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to chest pain, a heart attack, and other complications.

Bypass surgery involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body, such as the leg or chest, and using it to bypass the blocked or narrowed artery in the heart. This creates a new route for blood to flow to the heart, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of complications.

Bypass surgery is typically recommended for people with severe coronary artery disease who have not responded to other treatments, such as medication or lifestyle changes. The procedure can also be performed in an emergency, such as during a heart attack.



Key Differences between Bypass and Open Heart Surgery


While both open heart surgery and bypass surgery involve surgery on the heart, there are several key differences between the two procedures.

  1. Indications: Open heart surgery can be used to treat a variety of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, aortic aneurysms, and congenital heart defects. Bypass surgery, on the other hand, is typically used to treat severe coronary artery disease that has not responded to other treatments.
  2. Technique: Open heart surgery involves making an incision in the chest and cutting through the breastbone to access the heart. Bypass surgery involves creating a new route for blood to flow to the heart by taking a blood vessel from another part of the body, such as the leg or chest, and using it to bypass the blocked or narrowed artery in the heart. This procedure is typically used to treat severe coronary artery disease that has not responded to other treatments.
  3. Type of heart condition to treat: Bypass surgery is primarily used to treat coronary artery disease, while open heart surgery can treat various heart conditions.


While both bypass surgery and open heart surgery involve surgery on the heart, they differ in the type of heart condition they treat, the technique used during the procedure, and the recovery time required. One cardiac surgeon will determine which procedure is best for the individual based on needs and conditions.


Cost of heart surgery in Delhi


The cost of heart surgery in Delhi, India, can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of procedure, the hospital or clinic where the procedure is performed, the surgeon's experience and qualifications, and the patient's overall health. So one needs to visit the best cardiac surgeon in Delhi for the best heart treatment.


The success rate of heart surgery in Delhi


Success rates for heart surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure and the patient's overall health, but Dr. Sujay Shad, who practices at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, reports success rates of over 90% for common procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and heart valve replacement.


Hopefully, this article has touched on all the significant aspects of bypass and open heart surgery. Book a consultation with Dr. Sujay Shad to learn more about the treatments and the exact heart surgery cost in Delhi.

Monday, February 27, 2023

Heart Failure: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery

 Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough healthy blood to meet the body’s requirements. An inadequate blood supply disrupts the body’s major functions, which may result in further serious problems. According to statistics, heart failure is a prevalent health condition that has affected about 26 million people worldwide and is still on a continuous rise (1). 


With an increasing number of cardiac patients, medical scientists are working daily to make heart treatments affordable and available for all. In this blog, Dr. Sujay Shad, the best heart doctor in Delhi, explains the available treatment for heart failure under his expertise. He also discusses the various causes and risk factors that may lead to heart failure. 





Keep scrolling till the end to read some genius tips to keep the heart healthy. 



Causes and Risk Factors


The majority of people with heart failure also have another health problem. Coronary artery disease (CAD), an illness that narrows the arteries that deliver blood and oxygen to the heart, is one of the leading causes of heart failure. Some other conditions that may contribute to the risk of heart failure are: 


  • Hypertension: The heart of the person suffering from high blood pressure works harder than usual to supply blood to other organs. However, over time, this pressure makes the heart muscles either too stiff or weak, which eventually may cause problems in pumping blood effectively. 
  • Defective heart valves: The heart's valves ensure that blood flows in the right direction. When a heart defect, coronary artery disease, or a heart infection damages a valve, the heart has to work harder, which can make it weaker over time. This may lead to heart failure. 
  • Injured heart muscles: Damage to the heart muscles may also cause heart failure. Some health conditions,  infections, alcohol, use of illegal drugs, and in some cases, some chemotherapy drugs may lead to damage to heart muscles. 
  • Myocarditis: This condition may also cause inflammation and cardiac muscle pain. It is a viral inflammation caused by various viruses, including the COVID-19 virus, and can lead to heart failure on the left side.
  • Congenital heart disease: When the heart or heart valves do not develop properly at birth, it may lead to an extra burden on the developed part of the heart to make sufficient blood. This may lead to an exertion of the healthy parts and heart failure. 
  • Irregular heartbeats: When the heartbeats are irregular due to certain health conditions, it may cause exertion on the heart and cause heart failure. 
  • Other risk factors: Some other health conditions and factors may also increase one’s risk of having heart failure. These are:
    • Health conditions:
      • Diabetes 
      • Lung diseases 
      • HIV 
      • High blood pressure 
      • Obesity 
      • Heart attack 
      • Sleep apnea
      • Anemia 
    • Lifestyle factors: 
      • Smoking 
      • Alcohol 
      • Use of illegal drugs 
      • Fatty food 
      • 65 years of age or older 
      • Family history of heart disease
      • Inactive lifestyle


Symptoms of Heart Failure 

Dr. Sujay Shad explains that one may experience the following symptoms of heart failure: 

  • Fatigue 
  • Weight gain 
  • Loss of appetite and nausea
  • Continuous coughing 
  • Irregular heartbeat 
  • Swelling in the stomach
  • Breathing problems
  • Swelling on the leg, especially around the ankle
  • Shortness of breath while lying down
  • Frequent urge to urinate 


Heart Transplant Surgery for Heart Failure


There are several ways and open heart surgeries that may help treat heart failure. However, when the body does not respond to any other treatment, Dr. Sujay Shad, an expert heart doctor, opts for heart transplant surgery. 


This is an open heart surgery, where the surgeon will change either the patient’s heart’s faulty part or the whole heart and replace it with a donor’s heart. 


The surgery may sound complicated, but when done by an expert like Dr. Shad, who is known for providing the best open heart surgery in Delhi provides a high success rate with a faster recovery pace. 


In the past few years, medical treatments for heart disease have advanced, and device treatments for heart failure have also improved. Smart machines that help the heart pump blood are easy to use, last long, and cause few problems. Heart transplantation gives long-lasting results at a fraction of the cost and improved quality of life.



Tips for Healthy Heart 


As rightly said, precaution is better than cure. These healthy heart tips can help one save themselves from the risk of heart failure: 


  • Eat healthy diet 
  • Quit smoking and alcohol 
  • Go running, dancing, skipping, or any physical activity 
  • Have a cube of dark-medium dark chocolate daily 
  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Control cholesterol, BP, and blood sugar
  • Stay stress-free 
  • Indulge in hobbies 
  • Laugh more 
  • Limit salt intake 


Dr. Sujay Shad, an expert heart doctor examines the patient’s medical history and current medical condition before suggesting further treatments. Visit him at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital for successful open heart surgery in Delhi. The expert heart surgeon will first provide a thorough diagnosis of the patient and then suggest the appropriate treatment.


Thursday, February 9, 2023

How Can One Keep their Heart Healthy: Important Tips

There are at least 31 million individuals with heart disease, and around 6 lakh individuals die each year. Heart disease remains in the top position for killing people worldwide. But, the good news is that, unlike other diseases, it is one of the few disorders that can be prevented by making lifestyle changes. But this lifestyle change must be permanent to achieve good heart health.

In this blog, Dr. Sujay Shad, the Top Heart Surgeon in Delhi, shares tips on having a healthy heart. Read on to learn more.





1. Reduce the Intake of Salt


Individuals who consume a higher amount of salt generally tend to have higher blood pressure, a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. A healthy individual should consume no more than 6 grams of salt daily. One should reduce the salt intake in their food and should read labels to determine the level of salt. Fast foods and processed meat products frequently have very high amounts of salt. One can reduce blood pressure by consuming less salt, but the dose of medications needed to lessen the blood pressure should also be lowered. Be on the lookout for methods to maintain a healthy heart.


2. Reduce Saturated Fat


Saturated fats are usually found in butter, pastries, biscuits, dairy fat and meat. The problem with saturated fat is that they promote atherosclerosis in the blood vessels, which leads to blockage. One should only use a minimal amount of saturated fat when cooking or instead avoid it and use unsaturated fats. Also, cutting down on meat products, such as pork, chicken skin, red meat, bacon, and ham, is essential. One should select low-fat dairy options and avoid pies, cakes, and biscuits.


3. Consume Less Sugar


Sugar is becoming hazardous as it provides junk calories, rapidly increasing obesity. Sugar is found in almost all foods. Diabetes, blood vessel disease, and heart disease can all be brought on by excessive sugar intake. Sugar is also a big contributor to tooth decay and dental cavities. Therefore, one needs to reduce sugar consumption. This is usually done by cutting the consumption of beverages, such as eating less sweetened food, i.e. pies, chocolates and candies. Since many foods are high in sugar, reading labels is also essential for maintaining heart health. Book a consultation with Dr. Sujay Shad, the Best Heart Surgeon in Delhi, at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital to learn ways of keeping the heart healthy. 


4. Stop Smoking


Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and other health problems like cancer. Individuals who smoke are more likely to be affected by a heart attack than people who do not smoke. Nicotine is known to narrow the blood vessels, which reduces the amount of oxygen delivered to the heart. Additionally, this narrowing can cause high blood pressure, which raises the risk of kidney failure and stroke.


5. Reduce the Intake of Alcohol


Alcohol is associated with many heart problems, including high blood pressure and damage to heart muscles. Alcohol is known to lower blood cholesterol in small doses, but since some people cannot control their consumption, it could become more troublesome. Therefore, one should restrict the amount of alcohol they intake.


6. Become Physically Active


People who are not physically active are more likely to experience a wide range of health issues, such as heart disease. Any type of exercise is better than no activity. To lower the risk of heart disease, it is advised that one engages in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. For those starting, daily walking for 45–60 minutes is suggested. The main idea is to be consistent. Exercise can help lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure, in addition to helping people lose weight.


7. Reduce the Body Weight


Obesity is not a benign condition, and it is linked to several long-term health conditions, such as heart and premature death. Obesity can be treated, but it requires effort and commitment. One can reduce their risk of developing heart disease by losing weight. Reduced calorie intake, increased physical activity, and weight loss surgery is required to lose body weight.


8. Control Stress


Another risk factor for heart disease and poor health is uncontrollable stress. One must take the necessary step to reduce stress in their life. One shouldn’t turn to alcohol to relieve stress but practice meditation, deep breathing exercises or join stress relief classes. In general, easing stress will not only improve the heart’s health, but the overall quality of life will also be improved.


9. Take Good Sleep


Nowadays, people have bad sleep habits, which increases the risk of heart disease. Too little sleep disturbs the body's hormonal balance, which creates havoc on the rest of the organs. One should get in the habit of getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Keep the bedroom free of distractions such as watching television or working on the laptop during late hours. One should go to bed on time and get up in the morning at the same time. Good sleep relieves stress, refreshes, and revitalises one for the day ahead.


Therefore, one should follow the above tips to feel better and stay active with a healthy lifestyle. Book an appointment with Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital to learn more ways of keeping the heart healthy and fit. He is also known for performing the best Open Heart Surgery in Delhi. Consult the expert heart surgeon today!

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