What You Need To Know About Heart Surgery Aftercare?

If you've been told that you're a candidate for heart surgery, you've probably got a lot of questions. You're undoubtedly wondering about life following surgery and how you'll manage your recovery. Keeping in mind that everyone's recovery is different, there are some common questions individuals have about the aftercare.

In this blog, we will address some frequently asked issues about heart surgery aftercare. To create this helpful guide, we had a discussion with Dr. Sujay Shad, a top heart surgery specialist in Delhi. Let us dig right into the information gathered about heart surgery aftercare.

How Long Will It Take to Recover?

The type of surgery you have and your overall health will influence your recovery time. While your surgeon will offer you the most accurate estimate of your recovery time, there are some broad recommendations.

• Open-heart procedures often necessitate a four to five-day hospital stay. After you've been released from the hospital, it normally takes six to eight weeks for your breastbone and chest muscles to heal as you gradually return to your normal daily routine.
• Less invasive procedures, such as stent installation or ablation, in which aberrant cardiac rhythm tissue is scarred or eliminated, usually only necessitate an overnight hospital stay. Recovery at home for these treatments can take up to a month. Keep in mind that any unforeseen difficulties will lengthen your healing time.

How Will I Look After Myself at Home?

Your medical team and heart surgeon will give you special guidelines for self-care at home. You should have a caretaker assist you with your first aftercare over the first week or two. This person could be a family member, a friend, or a home health assistant.

At-home heart surgery aftercare will involve the following:

• Taking care of your incision and keeping an eye out for signs of infection. When washing your incision, use warm, not hot, water and pat the area dry.
• Resuming normal physical activity gradually and increasing heart and lung function with light workouts such as walking and chair-based strength training. Yoga is another great workout.
• Taking your medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Keep an eye on your weight and note any changes.

After Surgery, How Will My Heart Condition Be Monitored?

Your doctors and nurses will closely monitor you during and after your surgery, and they will give you instructions to help you recuperate. Some of these guidelines will assist you and your doctor in monitoring your heart condition.

• Every Day, Note Your Pulse: Your pulse rate tells you if your heart rate is within a healthy range. Consult your doctor to determine what constitutes a healthy range for you. In general, if your pulse rate is higher than 110 beats per minute or less than 60 beats per minute, you should contact your doctor.
• Every Day, Weigh Yourself: Keep track of your weight and bring it with you to your follow-up appointments. A sudden rise in weight is sometimes an indication of fluid retention, which could signal that your heart isn't working properly or that you might have a kidney problem. Notify your doctor if you gain more than 2 pounds in one day or 4 pounds in one week.
• Take your Medications Exactly as Directed: Continue to take your heart, diabetes (if you have diabetes), and high blood pressure drugs, as well as any other prescription medications, once you return home. If you believe you should discontinue a medicine, consult with your doctor first.
• Maintain your Follow-up Appointments: Medical appointments after surgery are essential for monitoring your heart status. Make these appointments and bring any results or questions you may have for your doctor with you.
• Recognize and Respond to Warning Signs and Symptoms: If you have chest pain that isn't from your incision, nausea or vomiting, shortness of breath, a terrible headache that won't go away, or discomfort in your jaws, teeth, arms, or ears, call your heart surgeon right away.

What Can I Do to Bring Myself Back to My Daily Routine?

You'll probably be eager to get back to your normal routine following heart surgery, but you must give your body time to heal correctly. Overdoing it may impede your recuperation.

• Follow the Advice of Your Surgeon & Medical Team: This is especially important when it comes to resuming activities like lifting heavy objects and driving.
• Listen to Your Body: If you tire easily or experience pressure or pain while participating in an activity, stop. Overexertion increases the likelihood of injury or consequences.
• Help Your Body Repair Properly by Doing the Following: Eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, lowering stress, getting enough sleep, and not smoking are all key lifestyle changes that will assist you in recovering and returning to your normal schedule.

Conclusion

Getting heart surgery is huge and challenging. Even though the surgery is being performed on your heart, your complete body will be put through a lot. You'll need some rest and recovery time to regain your strength. You'll heal faster and feel better sooner if you take your recovery one day at a time. To get proper assistance you should always discuss what the recovery will look like with your surgeon. To do so you should consult a skilled surgeon. 

You can consult a top heart surgeon Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. The expert surgeon has over three decades of overall experience. He is known for performing varied complex heart surgeries like coronary bypass, heart valve surgery, aortic surgery, heart transplants, and open heart surgery in Delhi, and many more. To get personalized care, book an appointment with the skilled heart surgeon, Dr. Sujay Shad now!

Common Heart Conditions Treated by Heart Doctor

Heart doctors, also known as cardiologists, are medical professionals who can prevent, diagnose, and treat a wide range of problems related to the heart and the blood vessels. Learning about the most commonly occurring heart conditions taken care of by a heart doctor can help us understand the importance of keeping our heart in good health and how to avoid developing any heart condition.  

Heart doctors often see patients who present symptoms indicating a cardiac issue. Some of these symptoms include shortness of breath, dizziness, abnormal heart rhythms, sudden intense chest pain, and high blood pressure. This blog provides information on common heart conditions that heart doctors treat.

The article contains information and insights shared by Dr. Sujay Shad, a top heart surgeon in Delhi at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

Heart Conditions Commonly Addressed By Heart Doctors/Cardiologists

 

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Hypertension is not a disease in itself but it is a heart condition that when left untreated can increase one’s risk of developing serious heart conditions including heart stroke, heart attack, and coronary heart disease. Serious heart conditions happen because of some degree of damage caused to blood vessels over time.

When blood vessels get damaged, they become weak and can cause aneurysm to form. An aneurysm can burst and cause death. Hypertension also makes the heart work harder which further causes heart muscles to become thicker and the blood pumping process to be more difficult.

A heart doctor prescribes blood pressure-lowering medications and suggests some lifestyle modifications to treat moderate to severe hypertension.

 

2. Elevated cholesterol/ Atherosclerosis

Blood contains good and bad cholesterol- a wax-like substance. If there is an excess of bad cholesterol in the blood, it can lead to a build-up of plaque along the wall of the arteries. Over time this can result in a condition called atherosclerosis which is characterised by restricted blood flow in the arteries. This is the common cause of a heart attack.

A heart doctor orders tests to see if there is any blockage in the heart and along with other medical specialists plans out the treatment. If there is a mild elevation in bad cholesterol, a heart doctor may prescribe drugs to lower cholesterol. In severe cases, if there is a blockage, a heart doctor performs cardiac surgery or other procedures. This includes angioplasty and stent placement, endarterectomy, fibrinolytic therapy, and coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

 

3. Heart rhythm problems

There is an electrical system within the heart muscles that helps stimulate the heartbeat. If the electrical signals coordinating the heartbeat get interrupted or disrupted, heart beating rhythms get abnormal. The heart can beat too quickly (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), and/or irregularly (arrhythmia).

If heart rhythm problems are causing significant symptoms or increasing the chance of experiencing serious heart problems, a heart doctor needs to be consulted. A heart doctor can treat such problems with medications, and therapies like cardioversion, vagal maneuvers, catheter procedures; or heart surgery.

 

4. Angina

Angina is pain or discomfort felt in the chest and radiating to the jaw, neck, stomach, or arms. It occurs because of the narrowing of the blood arteries causing restricted blood flow to the heart. It is not an illness in itself, but rather a symptom of coronary artery disease. Some people have stable angina as they know how much physical activity can lead to an angina attack. Unstable angina is an undiagnosed pain in the chest or sudden aggravation of existing angina. It is a serious condition that calls for immediate medical attention by a heart doctor.

A heart doctor can treat angina by prescribing antiplatelet medications to prevent blood clots from forming and angioplasty with stenting to improve blood supply to the heart.

 

5. Coronary heart disease

Coronary heart disease is a common cardiovascular condition caused when the coronary arteries become narrow or obstructed and cannot supply enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart. It can result in angina and/or heart attack. A heart doctor can treat coronary artery disease by some medications or by performing heart surgeries like coronary angioplasty and stent placement and coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

 

6. Valve disease

Hearts have valves that function to regulate the flow of blood through the heart in the forward direction. If there are problems in valve functioning, the blood plumping will get hard and there will be strain on the heart muscles. There are three kinds of heart valve diseases: regurgitation, stenosis, and atresia. A heart doctor can help treat valve diseases with some medications or through heart valve repair/replacement surgery.

 

7. Heart attack (Myocardial infarction)

A heart attack happens because of a complete stoppage of the blood supply to a part of the heart muscles. Commonly, this is the result of breaking off a portion of a fatty material or a blood clot formation in the coronary artery. A heart doctor can help urgently fix the blood and restore normal oxygen levels within the body. A heart surgery or procedure is performed by a heart doctor to open the blocked artery. Some prescription medications can even help.

 

8. Cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrest is a sudden stoppage of the beating of the heart because of the complete loss of electrical activity of the heart. Without prompt treatment, sudden cardiac arrest can be fatal. In such a case, a heart doctor can provide emergency treatments like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and shocks to the heart using a device called an automated external defibrillator (AED). A heart surgery can also be performed to place a pacemaker device or to remove a blockage in heart arteries.

 

9. Heart failure

When the heart is not pumping normally and the heart muscles are not able to meet the body’s demand for blood and oxygen, it’s called the failure of the heart. Depending upon its cause, a heart doctor can treat heart failure. The treatment options include a combination of prescription medications and surgeries or other procedures such as coronary bypass surgery, heart valve repair or replacement surgery, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, cardiac resynchronization therapy, ventricular assist device, and heart transplantation (in case of severe heart failure). For further details on heart failure treatments and their management, you can contact Dr. Sujay Shad, the best cardiac surgeon in Delhi.

 

10. Congenital heart conditions

Congenital heart conditions are an outcome of defects in the heart structure present at birth. Some of the heart defects are life-threatening. A heart doctor can treat congenital heart defects depending on their type and severity. The treatment options include cardiac catheterization or surgeries to repair heart and blood vessels.

If you're encountering the symptoms described above and want to seek further information on methods and therapies to promote a healthy heart, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Sujay Shad, a renowned cardiologist and heart surgeon at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi. Dr. Shad is a highly skilled heart surgeon who has successfully conducted numerous life-saving heart surgeries. Don't hesitate, reach out for a consultation today to learn more!

Can One Live A Long Life After Heart Bypass Surgery?

Heart Bypass Surgery or Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery is a surgical procedure in which a surgeon creates a bypass around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, allowing increased blood flow to the open grafts beyond the blockage to supply blood to the heart muscles. If other immediate treatments fail, the surgery may be performed as an emergency treatment for a heart attack. 

Individuals who undergo this surgery or those who are recommended to get it have numerous questions on their minds. One such common question is: what would be the life expectancy after a heart bypass surgery?

This blog is being drafted to answer this question and explain the factors that would determine the life expectancy after this surgery. The information is being gathered from the insights of the expert and senior heart doctor in Delhi, Dr. Sujay Shad, to make this a valuable guide for the readers. The post will also include why getting this surgery is essential in the first place and in what situations the doctor advises the surgical procedure. Let’s begin by learning the importance of getting heart bypass surgery. 

Why is Heart Bypass Surgery Essential?

The heart has three major coronary arteries. Over time, fatty deposits can form on the inside of these arteries, resulting in Coronary Heart Disease and decreased blood flow to the heart. When this occurs, one may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, and a heart attack.

The number of blocked coronary arteries determines whether the patient has single-, dual-, or triple-artery disease. Heart bypass surgery is used to relieve the symptoms of coronary heart disease and reduce the risk of having a heart attack.

When Would Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Advice?

If one has any of the following conditions, the doctor may advise one to have coronary artery bypass surgery:

• A blockage in the left main coronary artery. This artery carries a lot of blood to the heart muscle.
• The main heart artery is severely constricted.
• Severe chest pain is caused by the narrowing of several heart arteries. The narrowing reduces blood flow to the heart even during light exercise or rest.
• More than one diseased heart artery and the lower left heart chamber aren't working correctly.
• A heart artery blockage that cannot be treated with coronary angioplasty. A balloon attached to the tip of a thin tube called a catheter is used to widen the artery. A small coil known as a stent is typically used to keep the artery open.
• An unsuccessful angioplasty with or without a stent. An artery, for example, narrowed again after stenting.

How Long Will One Live Following Bypass Surgery?

While the answer will differ for each individual, there is good news in general: patients who have CABG or heart bypass surgery can and often do live long, healthy lives afterward.

Those who successfully complete a heart bypass and survive the first month of recovery have a survival rate comparable to the general population. And they're doing it with significantly improved heart function!

However, listening to the cardiothoracic surgeon, cardiologist, and other medical providers is key to living a healthy life. One has worked hard to repair the heart; now it's time to keep it in top condition.

What are the Results of Heart Bypass Surgery?

Most people feel better after recovering from coronary artery bypass surgery. Some people have been symptom-free for years. However, the graft or other arteries may clog in the future. If this occurs, one may require another surgery or procedure.

The long-term outcome is determined by how well one controls blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and chronic conditions such as diabetes. It is critical to take the medications exactly as prescribed.

What Are the Lifestyle Changes To Keep The Heart Healthy?

Making lifestyle changes can help one manage and even improve heart health. Try the following steps:

• One should not smoke. Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for heart disease, particularly atherosclerosis. Quitting smoking is the most effective way to lower the risk of heart disease and its complications.
• Eat a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Consume less sugar, salt, and saturated fat.
• Control the weight. Obesity increases the risk of heart disease. One should enquire with the doctor about what constitutes a healthy weight for them.
• Exercise. Diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure are all risk factors for heart disease that can be managed with regular exercise. With the doctor's permission, aim for 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. The doctor will guide when it is safe to resume exercising after surgery.
• Get enough rest. Sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases. Adults should sleep for 7 to 9 hours per day.

Conclusion

Although most people recover well from heart bypass surgery, it is important to remember that the procedure does not treat the underlying coronary heart disease. As a result, it is critical to take care of the heart by adhering to lifestyle recommendations suggested by the doctor. 

In most cases, heart bypass surgery can save a person's life. However, one should have this surgery only after consulting with an experienced heart surgeon. The surgeon will guide one the best about the surgery. One can consult Dr. Sujay Shad, a leading heart doctor at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, home to the best heart surgeon. Make an appointment if one wants to learn about the bypass surgery cost in Delhi or have any concerns about the procedure.

The  doctor and insurance experts at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, can help you get details on this surgery cost and if this is covered in insurance. Contact for more details!

What is Worse Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest?

There is a widespread misconception that heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrest are similar, if not the same, conditions. However, because both are medical emergencies involving heart health, distinguishing between them is important. A blood clot typically blocks the heart's blood supply during a heart attack, whereas an electrical failure causes the heart to stop beating completely during a sudden cardiac arrest. 

From this, one can easily understand that cardiac arrest is more severe, as it can lead to death within minutes if proper care is not provided.

Furthermore, this blog is being made to dispel the myth that a heart attack and a cardiac arrest are the same thing, as well as to inform readers on which is more fatal. This essay was written using critical information taken from the insights of Dr. Sujay Shad, a prominent heart doctor in Delhi practicing at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. We will determine which of these two conditions is more dangerous. Furthermore, we will go over these conditions, their symptoms, and the reasons for them. Let’s now go right into the details.

Heart Attack: It’s Causes & Symptoms

A heart attack ensues when the flow of blood to the heart from one or more coronary arteries is diminished or blocked. 

Causes: The obstruction is mainly caused by a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the arteries leading to the heart (coronary). Plaques are fatty, cholesterol-containing formations.

Symptoms: Some signs of a heart attack are more common than others. However, most people associate a heart attack with chest pain. However, it's important to remember that not every heart attack presents "classically." In some individuals, particularly women and people assigned female at birth, diabetics and the elderly may also develop "atypical" symptoms with their heart attack. It includes symptoms such as abdominal or back pain or even no symptoms at all.

Among the Symptoms are:

• Angina (a type of chest pain)
• Breathing difficulty
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Indigestion or nausea
• Palpitations in the heart
• Anxiety
• Sweating
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.

Cardiac Arrest: It’s Causes & Symptoms

Cardiac arrest is a potentially life-threatening disorder in which the heart stops beating. The heart is no longer pumping blood. This puts the organs and the entire body at risk of death within minutes. They must be supplied with oxygen at all times. The oxygen is delivered via blood.

Causes: The majority of abrupt cardiac arrests are caused by abnormal heart rhythms known as arrhythmias. Ventricular fibrillation is the most frequent life-threatening arrhythmia. This is characterized by unpredictable, disorganized impulse firing from the heart's ventricles (bottom chambers). When this occurs, the heart becomes unable to pump blood. One could die in minutes if one does not receive treatment.

Other causes of cardiac arrest include:

• Coronary artery disease
• Heart problems that are present from birth
• Changes in the structure of the heart are caused by disease or infection
• Excessive physical exertion or blood loss.

Symptoms of cardiac arrest may include:

• Fainting
• Chest discomfort
• Breathing difficulty
• Vomiting and nausea
• Palpitations in the heart
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.

Difference B/w Heart Attack & Cardiac Arrest

A heart attack can be fatal. Plaque usually clogs the arteries that supply blood to the heart. The heart's muscle tissue can begin to die if it is deprived of oxygen and nourishment. The goal is to get blood flowing back to the heart as soon as possible; otherwise, a heart attack can cause irreversible damage and even death. 

In contrast, the heart begins racing in a confused, disorganized manner after cardiac arrest. Almost immediately, blood ceases to circulate. One falls unconscious, ceases breathing, and has no pulse. The brain begins to die from a lack of oxygen and blood flow unless the heartbeat is restored as soon as possible. According to Cleveland Clinic research, less than 10% of persons who suffer from sudden cardiac arrest survive. 

What is Worse, Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest

The information provided above makes it clear that cardiac arrests are more life threatening than heart attacks. Heart attacks do not cause the heart to cease fully beating, as it does during a cardiac arrest. Furthermore, a cardiac arrest necessitates prompt medical attention. Because a lack of timely medical assistance might result in death within minutes, a heart attack still has a possibility of survival. 

In addition, the treatment for heart attack includes medications and surgical procedures such as Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) and Coronary angioplasty and stenting. Some doctors also suggest cardiac rehabilitation. However, the treatments for cardiac arrest involve Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), Coronary angioplasty, Coronary artery bypass surgery, Radiofrequency catheter ablation, and Corrective heart surgery. 

Note: The expert heart surgeon determines the best treatment options after a thorough examination of the patient’s condition. 

Conclusion

Both a heart attack and a cardiac arrest are serious heart disorders. If one is experiencing any difficulties that reflect indications of either of the two diseases, one should seek immediate medical attention.

In such instances, one can seek the advice of Dr. Sujay Shad, a renowned heart surgeon and transplant specialist. The skilled surgeon is a pioneer in the field of heart surgery. He provides superior care to his patients based on his extensive experience spanning more than three decades. He is well-known for doing successful procedures such as coronary bypass surgery, aortic surgery, heart valve surgery, septal myectomy for HOCM, and many more. One can visit the surgeon to learn more about these surgeries and their expenses, such as the bypass surgery cost in Delhi at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

8 Symptoms That May Mean One Needs a Pacemaker - Guide By Expert

The ideal heart rate for an adult ranges between 60 and 100 beats per minute, depending on the patient's age and health. Usually, the lower the resting pulse, the better it is. However, a heart rate that is too slow can cause complications. 

A slow heartbeat is the reason why one needs a pacemaker to speed up the heart beat and stimulate the heart pump more effectively. While pacemakers are not used to treat all heart diseases or irregular heartbeats, there are specific symptoms that can help determine whether someone requires one.

This blog has been drafted by taking insights from expert heart surgeon, Dr. Sujay Shad, the best cardiac surgeon in India, at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. This blog talks about the signs and symptoms that warrant the need for a pacemaker. Read on for detailed insights.

What is a Pacemaker and What Role Does it Play?

With advancements in medical technology, expert heart specialists nowadays have a better understanding of how the heart works, which helps them design and create several treatment options to control an irregular heartbeat. As a result, cutting-edge pacemakers are used to treat arrhythmias and other illnesses that can enhance and improve the quality of life. A pacemaker is a small device that is implanted in the chest area to control the heartbeat.

During the pacemaker procedure, small wires are used into the heart, where their tips connect the heart muscle. The pacemaker unit is connected to the other ends. When the device detects an abnormality, it delivers electrical signals to the heart through the electrodes, restoring it to a normal rhythm. Pacemakers can be designed to activate during episodes of bradycardia, atrial fibrillation, or cardiac arrest, and they only work when necessary.

Following are the common signs that indicate the need to get a pacemaker:

1. One Gets Dizzy

Dizziness can be a sign of the heart not beating properly. This can be caused by low blood pressure, low sugar, and other health issues too.

2. One Feels Fatigue

If the heart does not beat effectively and does not pump blood through the body, one might feel tired or fatigued even if one rests for the whole day. Fatigue can indicate a feeling of sleeping for the entire day, and one does not have the energy to do anything.

3. One Experiences Pounding in their Chest

Some irregular rhythms are considered harmless. The pounding in the chest, though, can indicate an alarming irregular heartbeat that can be treated with a pacemaker.

4. One Faints But Doesn’t Know Why

Fainting can cause serious injuries, especially if one falls in a dangerous area, hits a car, or faints. This can be a result of the heart beating too slowly or irregularly.

5. One Feels Shortness of Breath or Difficulty in Breathing

Shortness of breath or difficulty in catching the breath can be a sign of serious medical conditions such as asthma or pneumonia. Breathing issues, however, can also be an indication of heart issues or irregular heartbeats. A sign that the heart isn't functioning as efficiently as it should be is if one experiences increasing shortness of breath when performing activities such as shopping, climbing stairs, or cleaning the house. 

However, shortness of breath should never be ignored, and one must seek the help of an expert heart doctor in Delhi, such as Dr. Sujay Shad, right away to diagnose the root cause and get the concern treated.

6. One Has Been Diagnosed With Bradycardia

It's not necessarily a sign of bradycardia if one occasionally takes the pulse and finds it slow, below 60 beats per minute. However, one could require a pacemaker to keep up a healthy heart rhythm if the doctor has performed testing and diagnosed bradycardia.

7. One Takes Medicines that Slows the Heartbeat

There are some medications, such as dig-ox-in, for heart diseases that slow down the heartbeat. The doctor could advise a pacemaker if they need higher doses of these medications, and there is a possibility that the heart rate will go slow.

8. One Has Chest Pain

Arrhythmias do not generally cause chest pain, but the chest pain could ideally be a sign of a heart attack or heart disease. Depending on the type of condition, it is likely to be treated with a pacemaker.

Conclusion

Ignoring heart symptoms can be life threatening. To inquire about heart related conditions or diseases and want to know more on heart surgery cost in Delhi, make an appointment with Dr. Sujay Shad at the most famous heart hospital in Delhi, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, right away.

He is an expert heart doctor and is known for performing a wide range of heart procedures, such as HOCM, aortic dissection, mitral valve surgery, heart transplants, bypass surgery, etc., at the hospital.

Open Heart Surgery: All you want to know about what is open heart surgery and is it successful?

Any surgery performed on muscles, valves, or the arteries by cutting them open is called open heart surgery. One of the most common reasons to perform this surgery is to harden arteries when fatty material creates plaque in the valves. Open heart surgery is a surgery performed by heart specialists to repair a heart. Although it is considered a complicated surgery, open heart surgery is one of the most common surgeries done on adults.

To provide the readers with a better understanding of open heart surgery and its success rate, Dr. Sujay Shad, a renowned heart surgery doctor at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, has shared important insights about the same in this article. The expert heart specialist is known for performing the best open heart surgery in Delhi. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Open Heart Surgery?

Open heart surgery is a medical procedure where the heart specialist opens the chest to access the heart. It is performed to treat a range of heart conditions that can otherwise not be treated effectively with less invasive methods. During open heart surgery, the patient is given general anesthesia to ensure they do not feel pain throughout the procedure. The heart specialist makes an incision in the chest to assess the heart. The surgeon then performs the required repairs or procedures after opening the chest cavity, and the heart is temporarily stopped. Open heart surgery is a major surgical treatment that involves risks and necessitates careful preoperative evaluation and aftercare, despite the fact that it can be quite helpful in treating serious cardiac diseases. Recent developments in medical technology have led to the development of less invasive alternatives for some heart operations, which, in some circumstances, can eliminate the need for full open heart surgery.

When is Open Heart Surgery Required?

Patients would benefit from open heart surgery only for a few reasons:

Blocked Arteries: If stents or other less invasive treatments do not work, surgeons may choose a CABG to take the healthy vessels and create a passage for the blood to go through to bypass the blockage.

Leaky or Tight Valves: The heart valves act like a door to the heart muscles. Heart valve replacement can replace the valves that allow the blood to flow backward into the heart and lungs instead of to the rest of the body.

Advanced Heart Failure: Patients suffering from heart failure could benefit from different types of open heart surgeries such as heart valve replacement, CABG, ventricular assist devices (VAD) or impella, and even heart transplants from a donor.

Book an appointment with Dr. Sujay Shad, a heart surgery doctor in India, to learn more about open heart surgeries. 

What Happens During Open Heart Surgery?

During open heart surgery, the heart surgeon makes a cut or an incision on the chest to assess the heart. The surgeon will then remove the blocked or damaged artery and replace it with a healthy one. During the surgery, the patient will be hooked up to a heart-lung machine. The machine will be responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the body when the surgeon is operating on the heart.

Post-procedure, the surgeon will take the patient off the machine and check if the graft was successful. If the new artery is working fine to restore blood flow to the heart, the procedure will be considered successful. After a successful bypass, the incisions will be closed, and the patient will stay in intensive care until they show signs of recovery.

When Can One Undergo Open Heart Surgery?

The severity of the coronary artery disease indicates one needs open heart surgery. If the medications are not enough to treat blocked arteries, the cardiologist could recommend open heart surgery. This will allow the surgeon to bypass the blocked artery with a healthy one, and the blood will flow back to the heart, which will lead to an improved quality of life. The heart specialist will determine if one is an ideal candidate for open heart surgery based on the criteria given below:

Good Physical Condition: The heart specialist will evaluate one’s physical condition. A valve or artery in the heart that is no longer functional will be removed during open heart surgery, but this won't cure the heart problem. If one does not make healthy changes to their lifestyle after the surgery, there are chances that the artery will become blocked again. It's critical to commit to physical exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet. Such modifications will help one live longer and better after open heart surgery.

Postoperative Care: One must have someone around them who will take care of them after the operation. Postoperative care is vital in determining the success of open heart surgery. Recovery from the surgery could take a few days. During the recovery, one should avoid strenuous physical activities, as these could strain the chest, open the incisions, and lead to complications. Dr. Sujay Shad, a famous heart surgery doctor, will share post-operative tips with the patient after performing the open heart surgery. This will lead to smoother and quicker healing.

Smoking: The heart doctor will ask the patient to quit smoking and live a healthy lifestyle. Heart bypass patients can live for several years as long as they stop smoking.

What is the Open Heart Surgery Success Rate?

The success rate of open heart surgeries can vary depending on several factors, i.e., the patient's overall health and age, the specific condition being treated, the experience of the surgeon performing the surgery, and post-operative care. However, immense advancements in medical technology, surgical techniques, and post-operative care have improved the success rate of open heart surgeries over the years. Many heart surgeries are successfully performed, leading to improved heart function and increased quality of life. Some of the most common open heart surgeries include coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), heart valve repair or replacement, and surgeries to treat congenital heart defects.

However, like any other surgical procedure, there could be some complications associated with open heart surgery. These include bleeding, infections, reactions to anesthesia, etc. The success of the surgery will also depend on the overall health of the patient undergoing the surgery and other health conditions such as BP, diabetes, obesity, etc. One should have a discussion with medical professionals to understand the risks and potential outcomes associated with open heart surgery.

To learn more about open heart surgery or any other heart surgery such as CABG, heart transplants, aortic surgery, etc., one can book an appointment with Dr. Sujay Shad, a heart specialist in Delhi, at the renowned Sir Ganga Ram Hospital today. 

When Heart Bypass Surgery is Recommended?

The most important role of the heart is to pump blood to all cells of the body, and the blood vessels offer a pathway for the blood to travel. The doctor might suggest heart bypass surgery if one or more arteries are damaged or partially obstructed.

In this blog, Dr. Sujay Shad, a famous heart doctor in Delhi, has given crucial information which is utilized to discuss what heart bypass surgery is and when it is recommended. Continue reading for more insights.

What is Heart Bypass Surgery?

A heart bypass surgery is performed to improve the blood circulation of the heart. During the surgery, a heart surgeon takes blood vessels from other areas of the body to bypass the blocked or damaged arteries. The risk of a heart attack and other heart-related issues decreases after this procedure. Usually, the procedure is carried out when coronary arteries become clogged or damaged.

Depending on how many arteries are blocked, the doctor may recommend the following:

• Single Bypass Surgery– One artery gets blocked
• Double Bypass Surgery– Two arteries get blocked
• Triple Bypass Surgery– Three arteries get blocked
• Quadruple Bypass Surgery – Four arteries get blocked

To learn more about bypass surgery, one can consider booking a consultation with the best heart surgeon in Delhi, i.e., Dr. Sujay Shad, at the Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

When Can One Consider Heart Bypass Surgery?

Heart bypass surgery, also known as coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, is advised in situations of severe coronary artery disease. The decision to recommend heart bypass surgery is based on several factors, including:

1. Severity of Coronary Artery Disease: A bypass surgery is recommended when there are major blockages or narrowing in coronary arteries, especially if these blockages are impeding blood flow to the heart muscles.

2. Symptoms: If a person with coronary artery disease experiences severe chest pain that is not controlled with medications, despite making lifestyle changes, this may require bypass surgery.

3. Failed Medical Treatment: If lifestyle changes and medications fail to manage the symptoms of coronary artery diseases, surgery would be advised.

4. Heart Function: If the heart’s pumping function is affected due to coronary artery disease, surgery may be recommended to improve blood flow and the overall functioning of the heart.

5. Location of Blockages: The location and complexity of the blockages could also play a major role. If the blockages are present in critical arteries or are difficult to treat using less invasive methods such as angioplasty or stenting, bypass surgery could be considered an effective option.

6. Number of Blockages: If there are multiple blockages that are difficult to treat with other interventions, bypass surgery could be recommended.

7. Overall Health of the Patient: The patient's general health and ability to undergo the surgery are important factors. Factors such as the presence of other medical conditions, age, and surgical risks are considered.

One must understand that heart bypass surgery is a major procedure, and the decision to undergo the surgery depends on the surgeon. The surgeon will thoroughly review the patient's medical history, test results, symptoms, and general health before deciding on the surgery.

Who is Not a Suitable Candidate for Heart Bypass Surgery?

One may not be a suitable candidate for heart bypass surgery if they have:

• Pre-existing conditions such as blood disease, heart valve diseases, etc.
• Severe physical disabilities, such as the inability to take care of themselves
• Diseases of other organs, such as the kidneys or lungs
• Advanced illnesses such as cancer, liver failure, or AIDS.

What Happens After a Bypass Surgery?

The patient will be taken to the intensive care unit (ICU) to monitor the condition. They will still be breathing with the ventilator but could be experiencing some of the heart bypass surgery side effects. This will include pain while breathing, coughing, and at the incision site. These are normal and will become better in a few days. The vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, will be regularly monitored while the patient is in the ICU for one to two days. The patient will be shifted from the intensive care unit to a regular room once the condition is stable, and from there, they will be discharged in 3 to 5 days.

One can follow these tips for speeding up their recovery process:

• Do not drive for at least six to eight weeks.
• Avoid indulging in intense workouts. Instead, perform cardiac rehabilitation if the doctor has recommended it. Cardiac rehabilitation is a personalized workout program that teaches healthy living habits.
• Perform simple household work only when one recovers.
• Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol.

The duration of the bypass surgery depends on the patient's overall health and the type of bypass surgeries one has had. To learn about the bypass surgery cost in Delhi, one can book a consultation with Dr. Sujay Shad, a reputed heart specialist at the Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. Besides heart bypass surgeries, he can also be consulted for other heart procedures such as heart transplants, aortic surgeries, heart valve surgery, aortic dissection, etc.