Q: How long does it take for patient to recover fully after coronary artery bypass surgery?
My brother went through coronary artery bypass surgery in early March has still been suffering from chest pain. Panadol does not work on him to relief pain. Is there any pain killer medicine ?

A: Many people have a lot of non cardiac pain after bypass which they mistake for cardiac pain. The actual cause can only be identified by medical evaluation. Psychological support will also go a long way in improving his status. Cardiac evaluation is a must to avoid missing of a true cardiac cause for the pain.

Q: May I know about risk rate on coronary artery bypass surgery?
If the person who went through coronary artery bypass surgery makes conscious efforts to keep her hit, can she live a long life like other healthy people?

A: Yes, as long as you keep all your follow up appointments with your cardiac specialist, and eat right. You can live a long life, as long as you take better are of yourself from here on. Get plenty of exercise. Ask your MD how to get involved with a cardiac exercise program, to strenghten your heart, and ask for a cardiac diet to follow.

Q: Coronary artery bypass surgery – How do they stitch the small arteries?
It’s interesting how they attach an artery to the aorta and the other end to the coronary artery. How do they attach (fuse) them those small veins together?

A: With very small sutures. Seriously. It can also be done under magnification.

Q: May I know life expectancy for those who went through coronary artery bypass surgery?
Providing that they make conscious efforts to maintain healthy life. Using vein for this surgery affect the patient’s life expectancy?

A: Typically, the saphenous vein from the leg and the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) are used for the bypass. Veins used either have their valves removed or are turned around so that the valves in them do not occlude blood flow in the graft. LIMA grafts are longer-lasting than vein grafts, both because the artery is more robust than a vein and because, being already connected to the aorta, the LIMA need only be grafted at one end. For this reason, the LIMA is usually grafted to the left anterior descending artery (LAD), which supplies the left ventricle, the part of the heart that pumps oxygenated blood around the body. Alternatively, an artery such as the radial artery from the arm, may be used in place of a vein. This is believed to prolong the life of the grafts but this has yet to be proven.

Prognosis following CABG depends on a variety of factors, but successful grafts typically last around 10-15 years.

Q: Can the person who went through coronary artery bypass surgery live a long and healthy life?

A: Certainly you can . Take a look at my Profile.
I may have another one yet!
Who Knows?

For what it’s worth, I think diet & lifestyle are secondary to fitness. I hate to advise anyone anything but if I had to, I’d say (1) take the Cardio Rehab course (2) take the Advanced Rehab course, (3) join a Fitness Club and become Really fit and healthy, then (4) gently, regularly, stay that way.

Q: what kind is the recovery of coronary artery bypass surgery? ?
I mean is my dad( he´s going to have it done) going to have pain after the surgery? and can he do normal stuff like drive a car or go to work?
Because he believess that he will become a cripple. He is only 47 years old.
I will be very greatfull if you answer me.

A: I had a bypass twenty two years ago and another eight years ago .The recovery time after each was three months after which you are generally free of pain and you can lead a completely normal life. .Even after the two operations my life is quite normal.I play golf once a week and have a part time job I am also a keen gardener. So please tell your father not to worry he will have some discomfort especially in the first few weeks after the operation,from then on it will get easier.After three months he will certainly be able to drive and if his job is not a physically strenuous one he will be able to return to work shortly after that

Q: What is “endartenetomy” in coronary artery bypass surgery?

A: An endarterectomy is not uncommonly performed in the context of a coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG, aka open heart surgery, bypass surgery) It is actually incising the artery (opening it up and sewing it back closed along the length of the artery) to clean out the plaque.

I once knew a cardiothoracic surgeon who collected the gunk from the arteries of all his patients and kept it in a five gallon bottle in his office. The point was to show patients how much gunk gets in people’s arteries to clog the works. It was gross, but effective, I am sure.

Q: Where is the best place to get coronary artery bypass surgery in U.S.?
Any hospitals or surgeons anyone can recommend? And any idea of approximate cost? links appreciated, thanks!

A: Aw man, I was going to make a really bad joke about my brother-in-law’s garage, but I can’t beat the Kanye reference.

Legendary!

Q: I have been adviced by my cardiologist for a coronary artery bypass graft surgery?
but my surgeon suggested a test for Cardiac perfusion scan , before he decides for the bypass operation . Inspite i have had my angiogram been done . Do you think Cardiac Perfusion Scan will give better test results than the Angiogram or the Surgeon is trying to contradict the opinion of the Cardiologist . I would prefer if a Doctors explains and clreaify the situation to me . as i am the one whos heart is at risk – i dont want to be a part of internal Politics.

A: No it won’t give better results. A myocardial perfusion scan basically tests how well your heart muscle is being supplied with blood at rest and during exercise. It looks at how well your heart pumps and looks at the flow of blood to the walls of the heart muscle.

The test is often done to identify coronary artery disease or the source of any chest pain. This test is used along side other tests to evaluate your over all condition and decide which is the best treatment option for you.

It is slightly strange that he is ordering the cardiac perfusion scan after you have already had an Angiogram. The CPS or Thallium test will not give better results. The CPS will not show or explain the degree of blockage. It will only show if the heart is receiving enough blood from the arteries or not. The angiogram will give a clearer picture of where the blockage is and the degree of occlusion.

A variety of radionuclide tests are done before deciding if a CABG is the best option. I really think you should chat to your Cardiologist about this and ask him to explain to you why he has ordered this test- this will give you an understanding and also an opportunity for you to express any concerns.

Q: when is someone NOT a candidate for coronary artery bypass surgery?
number of affected vessels, diabetes, smoking, hypertension, left and right ventricular function, kidney failure (dialysis) and numerous other factors impact on bypass surgery, but even with these risk factors, some people can still have bypass surgery. why can’t others? just curious.

A: Depends on the competency is also a major contraindication!!
Absence of an open major artery 1 mm or more in diameter beyond the obstructing lesion.
Non viable myocardium present below the site of CABG; are some of the contraindications although a healthy topic much cannot be written.

Q: What would one experience after having coronary artery bypass surgery?
I’m finishing up a case study review for college in which i have to write up signs and symptoms for different diseases this guy has, and for some reason i also have to write up signs and symptoms for the coronary artery bypass surgery he had. What would i include in it? mostly i need help with vital signs eg; is his blood pressure lowered or high, would his oxygen saturation levels be notmal or lowered etc.

thanks!
Just to make is easier to understand, here’s the way i’ve been presenting for other questions:

Signs and Symptoms of Myocardial Infarction:
-Shortness of breath (normal range; 12-20 resps per minute)
-Nausea
-Weak, rapid pulse (normal range; 60-90 beats per minute)
-Back, arm and jaw pain
-High blood pressure (normal range; 100-120/60-80 mmHg)
-Decreased oxygen saturation (normal range; 96%-100%)
-lightheadedness or loss of consciousness

A: He should be asymptomatic after a successful bypass grafting. Some will have mild localised chest pain in the region of the scar. Others might have symptoms at the site of vein harvesting, including mild edema or occasional wound sepsis.

Q: where can I get an indepth explanation of coronary artery bypass surgery?

A: Please see the webpages for more details on Coronary Artery Bypass Graft. The latest operation technique is Off pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft which is more preferable than CABG. The following are the advantages.
(1) Arteries are used for the graft instead of veins. Brachial arteries will be used for the graft.
(2) The heart lung machine will not be used for this operation. The operation is done on the pulsating heart. However the heart lung machine will be kept ready in case of necessity.
(3) Since the heart is not stopping pulsation, organ failure will not occur.There will not be any damage for brain, kidney or liver.
(4)The red blood cells will not be damaged because the heart lung machine is not used. Impurities such as air bubble, minute plastic materials will not be get into the blood circulation.
(5) Hospital stay period will be reduced, thus the total cost of expenses will be reduced.
(6) Post-operative infections will be reduced by such operation.
This operation facility is available only in very few hospitals.
I advice you to undergo Off-Pump CABG.

Q: coronary artery bypass surgery?
after having bypass surgery can they do it a second time i guess what i am trying to say is can they bypass an artery that has already been bypassed

A: They can, but generally shouldn’t need to.

Q: How much in US$ the coronary artery bypass grafting in Indian hospitals?
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

A: CABG – Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting surgery costs now a days Rs.1.50 to 2.00 lacs. i.e. equivalent to US$ 4000 to 5000- This is only the charges for the hospitals and surgery charges. Other expenses may cost depending of the comforts and number of persons accompanying he patient and other tests to be done. –

Today – 30 September, 2007 is this year’s WORLD HEART DAY. Please see my blog at URL – http://360.yahoo.com/jayaramanms . and leave your comments and suggestions. Thanks. -

Q: How much does it cost on coronary artery bypass surgery in U.S.A.?

A: It will vary by area. For an angiogram, triple bypass surgery and 9 days in the hospital, my HMO paid the hospital about $30,000. The hospital billed the HMO about $227,000.

Q: What percentage of triple bypass surgery patients live beyond 5 years?
They tell you with the triple bypass surgery they are trying to add 5 years to your life.

A: 5 year grafts patency rate is 82% .Patients’survival is 95%
15 year grafts patency rate is 63%.Patients’ survival is about 65%

These figures are from CASS (Coronary artery surgery study) and The New England Journal of Medicine 1986 ;314::1-6.

But patients can survive less if the predisposing factors persist eg. sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy habits like smoking etc. etc.

Q: What are the statistics of someone having severe COPD, lung disease, diabetes and triple bypass surgery?
My dad needs triple bypass surgery but has severe emphzyma and lung disease. He also have diabetes. What are the risks and recovery (and how long) if he has the surgery? Is he better off not having the surgery?

A: First of all, good luck to you & your family…you’re going through a lot right now. Remember that even when you have a family member who is sick, you need to take care of yourself, too.

Now, to answer your question: unfortunately, there isn’t a good answer. As you’ve guessed, the more comorbidities (other problems) a patient has, the more difficult the surgery recovery. BUT…more important than having all these other conditions is how well they are controlled–a person with well controlled diabetes will do far better than a person with uncontrolled diabetes, for example.

Risks for any surgery, and especially heart surgery, are multiple. Your father’s surgeon should be addressing these with him. Special consideration should be given to how easily he can come off the ventilator and his wound healing, if his diabetes is not well controlled.

A very important factor is your dad’s motivation to do well with this surgery. A serious complication after heart surgery can be pneumonia, and getting up frequently and moving, as well as deep breathing and coughing (as you can imagine, not too pleasant after heart surgery) is of key importance to getting out of the hospital & doing well. If your dad isn’t motivated, his prognosis just won’t be as good.

As far as recovery, you can expect a TYPICAL heart surgical patient to be in the ICU for 1-2 days, then 4-5 days on a regular floor. Increasing activity a little each day, in the hospital and beyond is key.

There is no way we can say if he’s better off not having the surgery. If you’re not confident in the info the doc is giving you, go to another surgeon for another opinion.

Good luck.

Q: Is it safe to have a tattoo after triple heart bypass surgery?
I want to get a tattoo done but had triple bypass surgery almost two years ago, would having a tattoo affect my blood pressure, my medication etc, I had two heart attacks in the last two years.
Also diabetic
I will of course speak to my cardio but wondered if anyone else had one done..
Thanks..
and for the idiot that sent the stupid answer, hey, I am probably fitter than you now! At least they found out what was wrong with me, and unlike some my brain still functions:-) Bet you would have a job running a marathon, easy peasy for me:-) Go Figure!

A: i wouldn’t get a tattoo….being a diabetic also affects your ability to heal. A tatto is just a pretty open wound. But i would still contact your doctor. they usually know best.

Q: Cardiologists: What is the survival rate of a triple bypass surgery?
Thanks for responding to my previous question.
My grandfather had a heart attack yesterday. He is still alive… as it was a relatively “small” attack. However, he did obtain a 60% block. The doctor wishes to do a triple bypass surgery to remove all the scarred tissue instead of just giving him drugs. This will happen in about three days’ time so that all the blood thinner is cleared from my grandfather’s system.

I just need to know… What is the survival rate of such a surgery?

Thank you once more.
By the way.
He is 66 years old and this was his first heart attack.

A: I am 61 years old, and had triple Bypass surgery in October, 2006. I am alive and the risk is hardly 1%, and that too in people having other problems like BP, Diabetic etc.
Nothing to worry, I am in Pakistan and care was excellent even in this part of world.
The quetion is to be asked to Heart Surgeons not Cardiologits, who are talented to insert stents to avoid Bypass surgery.

Q: How long does a triple bypass surgery take to complete?
One of my relatives is going into surgery tomorrow and I was looking to see how long the procedure takes.

Just curious … During bypass surgery, do the doctors freeze the heart as well as turn the room temperature down low while operating on the patient?

A: It will take three to four hours for the surgery. I had one, and I don’t think they freeze the heart, or turn the temperature down.

Q: What is a triple bypass surgery? specifics?
What happens during a triple bypass surgery? Why would someone need it? What is the benefit of a triple bypass surgery?

A: They replace a clogged coronary artery with either an artificial one, or a donated one. Arteries are those tubes in your body that carry oxygenated blood to the tissues that need it.

Through either poor health habits (eating/exercising), poor genetics (family predisposition for getting clogged arteries), or a combination of both, these arteries may get clogged with a fatty/gooy substance (indicated for example, by high cholesterol).

They feed blood to your heart muscle tissue. When that tissue can’t get blood, it dies, and your heart stops.

Getting the bypass surgery allows the blood to flow to the heart and allows it to continue to pump. The benefit is that you live.

Forgot to add… double bypass means they replaced two arteries, triple means they replaced three, and quadruple means they replaced four.

Q: Is triple heart bypass surgery dangerous than most surgeries?
my english’s teachers father is having this triple heart bypass surgery. he got this three arteries blocked. i will say it is dangerous. what do you think?

A: It is dangerous, but it is probably more dangerous to do nothing.

I had a triple bypass earlier this year. The information I was given was before I signed the consent form indicated about two percent of patients did not survive the surgery. To some people 2% may sound like a small number, but when you are about to have the surgery it sounds pretty big.

One thing that made me feel a lot better was a talk with a nurse. She pointed out that 2% was an average, including people who were rushed straight from the emergency room to the operating room following a massive heart attack, people who were a lot older than I am, and people who had other complications such as diabetes, emphysema, etc.

So, while there is no doubt that the procedure is more dangerous than most other surgeries, the odds are much higher that everything will come out well.

Q: Can anyone tell me what recovery is like after having a triple bypass surgery?
I having this surgery thursday and I’m a bit nervious about it.

A: The CABG for a triple vessel block is very safe now a days. Thanks to the advanced safe developements, in the cardias anaesthesia, improved transfusion techniques, and developments in vascular surgery.etc.,.
So no need for any anxiety please.

Q: Can my dad get disability after having triple bypass surgery?
My dad is a carpenter and has worked for himself his entire life, and will be unable to work at all for three months, possibly longer. Is there something he can apply for to help pay some monthly bills? He has health insurance and is 58. Thanks for any and all help!

A: He can’t qualify for unemployment as a previous answer said, because to qualify you have to have been let go from your job and be looking and available for work. He needs to go ahead and apply for social security disability. To do this, you can go to your local social security office or you can start the process by going to www.ssa.gov and clicking on the link in the center of the page that says “applying for disability”. This is something he can do if he is not able to go back to work. To qualify you have to be unable to work for at least 12 months. Because of his age and past work there is a chance that he would qualify in the event he just can’t go back to his job when his recovery is over.

Q: What are the pros and cons of triple bypass surgery? My husband is?
scheduled for it tomorrow. Please help in deciding the right answer.

A: Pros – coronary arteries that surround the heart will be able to effectively perfuse the heart muscle with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to pump effectively. Reduced risk of a heart attack. Reduced risk of heart failure from a weakened heart muscle. Longer life.

Cons – any surgery carries risks. Will be on restricted activity for a period of time. Donor site may have complications in the future, especially true with diabetics.

If you are concerned talk to the doctor BEFORE he begins the procedure so all of your questions can be answered.

Q: My father had triple bypass surgery in March of 08 and has not been feeling himself since the surgery,?
he is on all kinds of medication such as Plavix, Toprol, Ranitindine, Lisinopril, and keppra for his blackouts, Does anyone know the side effects of these medications or why he is getting chills, is it from the surgery or maybe the medication?
He is 51, His appetite seems to be ok. He did not have any after surgery rehab.

A: How old is your father? Is his appetite okay?
Many patients suffer a bit of depression after having heart surgery. Did he partake in any Cardiac Rehab following surgery?

Q: I just found out my father had triple bypass surgery. What kind of life expectancy does he have?
He vaguely mentioned 10- 15 years.I’m kind of freaked out,it’s my dad. I can’t imagine him not being here.

A: Well Destiny you heard from doctors and people who have relatives who have had by passes but no one who has actually HAD by pass surgery , I reckon that first hand experience beats all all the theorising !
I had my first triple by pass in 1982 ( med term CABGX3 ) at the age of 48 !!!
I went back to work as aTV Tech sometimes carting heavy TVs up stairs for the next 10 years ! I also carried on smoking ( shocking horror ) I stopped 1992. No problems ! I only stopped work officially because the company went down ! I carried on working from home and enjoying life until the original by passes began to block up again, so in 1996 I had another CABG X 3 , this was followed by an Abdominal Aorta aneurysm repair in 1997 , continued working from home until I sold my house in 2005 and moved into a small unit without maintenance etc !
I am now 73 yrs 74 in Aug and am still doing everything that I need ! My wife and I look after each other and enjoy a simple life seeing our two beautiful grandchildren every week .

Ok then you did not say how old your father is but I am sure that he will do at least as well as I have done , oh and I myself have never been a health nut by any means , just average Joe Bloe !!!!!

Hope all this helps
Cheers Pete

Q: What does triple bypass surgery cost in WA, full cost if you don’t have insurance but want to go private?
What would the full cost of the operation be if you didn’t have private cover but didn’t want to wait in line to get into the public system? Thanks

A: Your best bet is to narrow your choice to two or three hospitals and then negotiate a rate prior to getting the surgery. Instead of an actual dollar amount, you will have better luck negotiating a percentage discount off their fees. They can ball park the surgery (let’s say $48,000) and then offer you 50% off if you pay the full amount before you are discharged. Don’t forget to price the fees for the surgeon and his team, and the anesthesiologist. These charges will not be part of the hospital’s fees.

They get you coming and going unfortunately. Good luck!

Q: Husband is having triple bypass surgery Tues, What should I know?
any information and personal experiences would be appreciated.

A: Your hubby should recover from this surgery surprisingly fast. He will likely spend 5-10 days in hospital with the first night being in ICU. By the next day they will get him up and sitting and probably walking too…His sternum, will be achey but nowhere near as bad as you imagine. It will be wired shut. As he is having a triple bypass he will likely have a scar/wound on his arm or even leg from harvesting a vein and that should heal without any problems. He should do some walking everyday as he recovers.

He may be a bit dopey for the first week or two as the effects of the anaesthetic leave his body. It will be about 4-6 weeks before he can drive again. Heavy lifting and golf should be avoided for a while too as the twisting and lifting will put a huge strain on his sternum. He will be pretty much back to normal at 4-6 weeks if he has no other problems.

The 2 answers above give you good info…I just wanted to add from a patients view what I felt. I have had absolutley no problems from my CABG.

Oh yeah…and dont be scared of Warfarin therapy its a piece of cake…there is absolutley no need for him to avoid standard razors and sharp objects…you will be struggling to notice any difference at all in his bleeding times and he will likely get just as many bruises as he used to get. Check this site to get the best info on warfarin http://www.warfarinfo.com/

Q: Is triple bypass surgery more dangerous off pump than on pump?
20% of heart bypass surgery is performed off pump meaning that the heart continues to beat and ciculate blood during the operation rather than the patient being put on a (heart / lung) pump. Anyone ever had an off pump bypass and recommend it?

A: I guess we have some misinformed people out there. The decision to use or not use the pump has nothing to do with transfusion. An off pump case may also require transfusion – though not as likely. “Off pump” is also often referred to as “beating heart” procedure. In this surgery the heart beat is slowed but not stopped – so the surgeon is operating on a moving organ. For a bypass procedure, patients have their heart stopped and have their blood circulated by a heart-lung machine. For some cases they may be able to perform the surgery without the machine – provided that they are able to access the area of the heart and make the bypasses without it. This is often much better for the patient. They also have the option during the surgery to put the patient on the bypass machine if they have problems or complications during the bypass. If you type in “off pump cabg” in your search window you can find several very good web sites that will have a lot more detail with the pros and cons. Since each patient is different and the skill of the surgeons and their experience vary from place to place it is always wise to look into this foremost.

Q: How soon can you drink regular coffee after having Heart Valve Surgery?
My mom’s a coffee-holic. I know she shouldn’t , but inevitable she will want her cup of coffee. She had Heart Valve surgery 6 days ago. Does anyone know the minimum number of days you should wait before having that much caffinee?

Thanks

A: Hey… my dad is in the hospital right now after heart valve surgery…Complications so it’s been 12 days Anyway, if she insists on having her cup of coffee make sure it’s decaf. Can you call her doc and ask? He/she should have given you a list of do’s and don’ts. Best of luck to her and hope she’s better than ever real soon!

Q: Does anyone know much about enlarged heart and heart valve surgery?
My brother is 32 years old.He has an enlarged heart ,a murmur,high blood pressure and heart regurgitation.
He may be having the valve replacement surgery.
I was wondering if anyone has had these things wrong with them and had the valve surgery and did well afterwards.

Any information would be very much appreciated.

A: Which valve is getting replaced (there are 4 in the heart)? Will he be getting a man made one (which will require life long blood thinners but are also very durable) or a pig valve (no need for blood thinners but won’t last as long) ?

Many people get valve replacements and it makes them feel wonderful afterwards…. make sure you find out about exactly the surgery he’s having so you know… but I’m sure he’ll be fine.

Q: Has there been any news about Robin Williams since he had his heart valve surgery?
I’m curious because in the next few years, I will probably need to have heart valve surgery, too.
Johnny! See if I ever give you that $2 now!

A: Robin Williams’ heart surgery “went extremely well” and he is expected to make a full recovery in eight weeks, according to his surgeon.

Williams’ publicist quoted the surgeon in a news release Monday that revealed the procedure was done on March 13 at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

“His heart is strong and he will have normal heart function in the coming weeks with no limitations on what he’ll be able to do,” said Dr. Marc Gillinov, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic. “A couple of hours after surgery, he was entertaining the medical team and making us all laugh.”

The 57-year-old comedian postponed his one-man-show tour and entered a Miami, Florida, hospital for testing earlier this month after suffering shortness of breath.

Doctors then told Williams he needed an aortic valve replacement, his publicist said.

Williams is expected to resume his 80-city “Weapons of Self-Destruction” tour in the fall, the publicist said.

Additionally, after successful aortic or mitral valve replacement, patients can expect to return to their preoperative condition or better. Anticoagulation (“blood thinners”) with a drug like Coumadin may be prescribed for 6 weeks to 3 months after surgery for those with biological valves, and for life for those with mechanical valves. Once the wounds have healed, most patients should experience few if any restrictions to activity.

I wish you the best.

Q: how often do people die from heart valve surgery?
so my boyfriend jus found out today that his valves isnt working…like the blood tries to go thru but it cant…

he has to get surgery…and i want to kno…is this a simple procedure or is it sumthing where there is a GREAT risk where he can die. I kno that all heart surgeys are very dangerous..but is this simple?

A: Its a big surgery but most of us do very well…sounds as if your bf is fairly young so his chances are very good for an excellent recovery and will likely lead a normal happy health long life…

have a look at this site for lots of great info

http://www.valvereplacement.com/

I had my Aortic valve replaced 3 years ago and I am as good as new now…it was nowhere near as awful as I tought it was going to be…

Q: Can I get a tattoo even after having an artificial heart valve surgery and take coumidin? (blood thinner)?
I have always wanted a tattoo but may have missed the boat I am 29 and had open heart surgery 2 years ago and have to be on blood thinners forever Anyone out there say its ok or am I amoron for thinking about it!?
maybe i could find some one to airbrush a tattoo on me with some highly permanant paint ha ha it isnt looking good so far!

A: Sorry you had to have the surgery. I have had surgeries before, and that whole coumidin thing afterwards really annoyed me.

I doubt your doctor will give you much of an answer– they are all p*ssies these days that worry about getting sued. Probably best to test out a small small area of tattooing and see how it goes.

Q: What is the life expectancy for the elderly who have heart valve surgery?
Barbara Walters is going to be 81 this year. How much time do you think she is buying? Many boomers may have to face this type of surgery in the future.

A: It is probably just the mitral valve which I have had since having rheumatic fever as a child. My sister had bypass surgery at 83, and she is still driving and getting around like a teenager. It depends on whether one of the valves becomes blocked again. My sister’s did become blocked and they ended up putting stents in a couple of them. Mitral valve surgery is not that bad.

Q: How long is heart valve surgery?
And how long does it take the patient to wake up after the surgery?

A: 4 to 5 hours. I had to have part of my aorta replaced as well, but I believe it was still complete in 5 hours. I think the time they wake up may vary a little more depending on the person and how the anesthesia affects them. I remember waking up, but do not know what time it was. It felt more like the middle of the night to me, which would have been 6 or 7 hours, but I really can’t say for sure. They moved me out of intensive care to a regular room the next morning and I left the hospital in 7 days, though if they would have gotten my blood thinner medication level correct sooner I would have left in 5 days.

Q: How long does it take to recover from Aortic heart valve surgery ?
Is slow and painful ?
How does it work !
are you at bed rest for awhile ?

A: This varies from person to person. I just had surgery on March 25, 2008. It is somewhat slow. Painful varies from person to person as well.

I had my surgery around noon on Tuesday, according to the doctors The surgery was about 4 or 5 hours. I was completely out during that time. I woke up in the middle of the night, not real sure because I was still out of it a little. Wednesday around mid-day they got me in a wheel chair and took me from ICU to my recovery room at which point they made me walk myself with a little help from the chair to the bed. They get you moving as soon as possible. I ended up being in the hospital until the following Tuesday, but that was because my blood thinner medication dose wasn’t correct yet, otherwise they would have let me go on Saturday.

I didn’t feel real bad pain after the surgery. The incision has never really bothered me but I did have pain in my shoulders and neck which is from them spreading the breastbone apart. The use of pain medications help that. They get you walking a little bit every day in the hospital.

Once you are released you should be some where you have someone to help you. You will be on restrictions of not lifting more than 10 pounds and you won’t be able to drive for a little bit. I found I needed help getting my shirts on and off at first and also my socks and shoes at times. You are never on bed rest. They want you up and moving as much as you can, but you will feel like taking a nap a couple times a day. Part of that for me was that I was not sleeping through the whole night. You won’t be able to sleep laying flat for a little while. An easy chair usually works best.

At this point coming up on 3 months after the surgery, I’m feeling pretty decent, but I can tell that I still have some healing to do. I went back to work after 8 weeks and for the most part I don’t have trouble doing anything in my day to day life.

Anymore questions, feel free to email me and I will answer the best I can.

Q: How risky in a heart surgery that involves replacing a heart valve, and fixing two aneurysm?
We found out that some one I know needs to have an open heart surgery because she was born with only two heart valves. On top of that they discovered two aneurysm in her heart and need to operate on her within a week. I know that all surgery is risky, but if any one can shed some light on this situation and possibly show me some statistics, it would be much appreciated.

A: Any surgery which involves multiple procedures to be done simultaneously will certainly be more risky, but with an experienced surgeon this type of surgery has a very high success rate. Some things to consider, though, are any other health issues of the person who is to have surgery. Age is a big factor, as is a persons activity level prior to surgery (more active people tend to “bounce back” more quickly). Also, smokers tend to have much longer recoveries due to lung issues (such as difficulty being weaned off the vent). Diabetics tend to heal more slowly, esp those with poorly controlled diabetes. Obesity also plays a large role, due to complications with infection, incisions re-opening, and greater difficulty with increasing activity after surgery.
There are many other factors that play a role – this is just a short list – and the surgeon will surely go over potential complications with the patient. Please let your friend know that you are there to help, but the first month or two after surgery is often hard on these patients as they struggle to recover. She may be reluctant to ask for help, but just doing simple things will be greatly appreciated. Make sure she has plenty of time to rest, and encourage her to eat, even if it is only a little – open heart patients tend to have very poor appetites after surgery!!

Q: VALVE SURGERY – THE PERFECT OPTION FOR THE PERFECT HEART?
After learning that I had severe stenosis and regurgitation in my aortic valve, I experienced the common mental and emotional problems of cardiac surgery patients. I was confused. I was scared. I knew nothing about open heart surgery or heart valve surgery.

My family and I searched the Internet looking for answers. Ultimately, that chaotic search produced more anxiety and I began suffering from insomnia.

What should I do ???

A: You need a lot more specific information from your cardiologist. Insist on it. Be polite but firm. Searching the internet can give you more information than you need. Your condition is specific to you. Only your cardiologist knows the details. Set down with him/her and have a long talk. What needs to be done to correct your specific condition? Surgery (a reasonable possibility) drugs? What steps can you take to help yourself? What is the recovery time if surgery is needed? What will be your level of activity? What is the long term prognosis? The internet is a good source of information but how much of what you read applies to you? Forget the internet for now, talk to your doctor.

Q: Curious About Heart Valve Surgery and Recovery?
I am a 13 year old girl, very healthy I have a Heart murmur and there is a chance I may be having this surgery due to many related symptoms and my appointment to see a cardiologist is still weeks away, so I wanted to know from people who have had the surgery what their experience was with getting this surgery done plus the whole recovery and Please no sugar coating.

A: Heart surgery is no walk in the park, but you are young and healthy. Once the decision is made that you do need surgery a lot of things will happen at once. Your cardiologist and cardiac surgeon will answer all of yours and your parents questions. You can also speak to a child life specialist, and they will be able to walk you though what will happen.
The surgery its self will take place in a hospital with an ICU that has a lot of experience caring for someone like you. On the night before surgery you will eat a lite dinner then nothing to eat or drink after midnight. Depending on the hospital, sometimes your parents can walk with you to the OR, and once in the OR you will have a whole team of nurses, anesthesia, perfusionist, and your surgeon to take care of you. The OR is normally noisy, bright, and cooled but you won’t remember this because you will be given “happy” medication to help relax you.
When you wake up in the ICU you will have a breathing tube (which will come out as soon as you are strong enough to breathe on your own), a foley to drain your bladder, IV’s, and tubes to drain fluid out of your chest.
Recovery will be slow at first, but most people are out of bed the next day, and moved out of the ICU and to a step down unit within 24 hrs. You will have pain, but they will give you drugs to help. Most people are back at home within 7-10days but it depends on how fast your body recovers. You will
feel better every day. And within 8 weeks you will be back to your old self.
Which valve needs fixed/ replaced? Aortic, Mitral? Research what type of valve you will get if you have it replaced- tissue (cow valve) or mechanical.

Q: Friend is having the new robot assisted heart valve surgery?
My boyfriend is having the new robotic assisted heart valve surgery soon he is in his early 30’s with regurigiatation (leaky heart valve) They were going to delay the surgery until the first of next year with the help of constant weekly check ups and medication but he is having chest pain not relieved by the medication that they are giving him now they have to move up his surgery for around the Thanksgiving time. The surgery is assisted with the help of a robot and they will cut open a small part of his ribs in his side vs the invasive mid sternum cut and they will put in a mechanical valve. He wont have the small cuts in his chest like other robotic heart surgeries. But he is very nervous about the whole surgery thing. But I told him that the the less invasive surgery hes having is less risky than normal surgery for I am positive on the high success rate of these surgeries. Has anybody had a valve replacement with the new robot assisted surgery and what are statitics of the robot surgery verses the old fashioned regular surgery?

A: No personal experience with this, but here is what I’ve heard:

It takes the surgeons a little while to get used to using the robot. It allows them to access areas that their hands are too big to get into without cracking open the chest. Apparently though, once they get used to it, they can do delicate surgery more easily than they can do it open. Of course, they are all trained to do the surgery open, so if there is a problem, they can always switch to that technique.

Any cardiac surgery is risky, but it sounds like it will be more risky for him NOT to do the surgery. It looks like his physicians are on top of what’s going on with him, so he should be just fine.

Best of luck to both of you!

Q: Is heart valve replacement surgery painfull? What are the chances of living after the surgery?

A: My mom has had it 3 times. And thankfully after the 3rd (within a 19 year period) she is the healthiest I have seen her in my entire life. Yes it is painful, but what surgery isn’t. Something that will help you is to get a big stuffed animal, or a huge pillow, to keep close to you because you will be coughing. You need to cough, and if you have something big and soft to hold against your chest, it will soften the blow. And try to have someone close to you stay with you at all times while you are in the hospital. That way you will have someone to take good care of you. You don’t always get a good nurse and you will be much more at ease if you have someone close to you there.

Q: After Heart valve surgery is done,how long does it take to remove the stitches?

A: Removal of stitches in paediatric patients is usually three to fve days. Again, this may vary from patient to patient. As a rule children heal fast, so the stitches come out fast. The following conditions will delay removal of stitches.
a. Presence of infection
b. Wound is not well approximated
c. The patient is not well nourished
d. Chemotherapy
e. other treatments are involved e.g. radiation

In adult patients stitches are generally removed after 7 to 9 days. The period will be increased if the patient is very old or has any of the conditions mentioned.

Self dissolving sutures do not ever need to be removed. They dissolve in the patient and the external bits just fall off.

I used to work in the ICU.

http://www.triond.com/users/Shergill

Q: Does everyone with a bicuspid aortic valve need heart surgery to live a long healthy life?
title asks it all, please answer I’m freaked out big time because i have this D:

A: usually if you have only a bicuspid aortic valve(no stenosis, regurgitation or any thing else) then there is a good chance you will not need surgery. But if you have stenosis ,or regurgitaton then there is a good chance you will need surgery

Q: How soon can you drink regular coffee after having Heart Valve Surgery?
My mom’s a coffee-holic. I know she shouldn’t , but inevitable she will want her cup of coffee. She had Heart Valve surgery 6 days ago. Does anyone know the minimum number of days you should wait before having that much caffinee?

Thanks

A: Hey… my dad is in the hospital right now after heart valve surgery…Complications so it’s been 12 days Anyway, if she insists on having her cup of coffee make sure it’s decaf. Can you call her doc and ask? He/she should have given you a list of do’s and don’ts. Best of luck to her and hope she’s better than ever real soon!

Q: Does anyone know much about enlarged heart and heart valve surgery?
My brother is 32 years old.He has an enlarged heart ,a murmur,high blood pressure and heart regurgitation.
He may be having the valve replacement surgery.
I was wondering if anyone has had these things wrong with them and had the valve surgery and did well afterwards.

Any information would be very much appreciated.

A: Which valve is getting replaced (there are 4 in the heart)? Will he be getting a man made one (which will require life long blood thinners but are also very durable) or a pig valve (no need for blood thinners but won’t last as long) ?

Many people get valve replacements and it makes them feel wonderful afterwards…. make sure you find out about exactly the surgery he’s having so you know… but I’m sure he’ll be fine.

Q: Has there been any news about Robin Williams since he had his heart valve surgery?
I’m curious because in the next few years, I will probably need to have heart valve surgery, too.
Johnny! See if I ever give you that $2 now!

A: Robin Williams’ heart surgery “went extremely well” and he is expected to make a full recovery in eight weeks, according to his surgeon.

Williams’ publicist quoted the surgeon in a news release Monday that revealed the procedure was done on March 13 at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

“His heart is strong and he will have normal heart function in the coming weeks with no limitations on what he’ll be able to do,” said Dr. Marc Gillinov, a cardiothoracic surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic. “A couple of hours after surgery, he was entertaining the medical team and making us all laugh.”

The 57-year-old comedian postponed his one-man-show tour and entered a Miami, Florida, hospital for testing earlier this month after suffering shortness of breath.

Doctors then told Williams he needed an aortic valve replacement, his publicist said.

Williams is expected to resume his 80-city “Weapons of Self-Destruction” tour in the fall, the publicist said.

Additionally, after successful aortic or mitral valve replacement, patients can expect to return to their preoperative condition or better. Anticoagulation (“blood thinners”) with a drug like Coumadin may be prescribed for 6 weeks to 3 months after surgery for those with biological valves, and for life for those with mechanical valves. Once the wounds have healed, most patients should experience few if any restrictions to activity.

I wish you the best.

Q: how often do people die from heart valve surgery?
so my boyfriend jus found out today that his valves isnt working…like the blood tries to go thru but it cant…

he has to get surgery…and i want to kno…is this a simple procedure or is it sumthing where there is a GREAT risk where he can die. I kno that all heart surgeys are very dangerous..but is this simple?

A: Its a big surgery but most of us do very well…sounds as if your bf is fairly young so his chances are very good for an excellent recovery and will likely lead a normal happy health long life…

have a look at this site for lots of great info

http://www.valvereplacement.com/

I had my Aortic valve replaced 3 years ago and I am as good as new now…it was nowhere near as awful as I tought it was going to be…

Q: Can I get a tattoo even after having an artificial heart valve surgery and take coumidin? (blood thinner)?
I have always wanted a tattoo but may have missed the boat I am 29 and had open heart surgery 2 years ago and have to be on blood thinners forever Anyone out there say its ok or am I amoron for thinking about it!?
maybe i could find some one to airbrush a tattoo on me with some highly permanant paint ha ha it isnt looking good so far!

A: Sorry you had to have the surgery. I have had surgeries before, and that whole coumidin thing afterwards really annoyed me.

I doubt your doctor will give you much of an answer– they are all p*ssies these days that worry about getting sued. Probably best to test out a small small area of tattooing and see how it goes.

Q: What is the life expectancy for the elderly who have heart valve surgery?
Barbara Walters is going to be 81 this year. How much time do you think she is buying? Many boomers may have to face this type of surgery in the future.

A: It is probably just the mitral valve which I have had since having rheumatic fever as a child. My sister had bypass surgery at 83, and she is still driving and getting around like a teenager. It depends on whether one of the valves becomes blocked again. My sister’s did become blocked and they ended up putting stents in a couple of them. Mitral valve surgery is not that bad.

Q: How long is heart valve surgery?
And how long does it take the patient to wake up after the surgery?

A: 4 to 5 hours. I had to have part of my aorta replaced as well, but I believe it was still complete in 5 hours. I think the time they wake up may vary a little more depending on the person and how the anesthesia affects them. I remember waking up, but do not know what time it was. It felt more like the middle of the night to me, which would have been 6 or 7 hours, but I really can’t say for sure. They moved me out of intensive care to a regular room the next morning and I left the hospital in 7 days, though if they would have gotten my blood thinner medication level correct sooner I would have left in 5 days.

Q: How long does it take to recover from Aortic heart valve surgery ?
Is slow and painful ?
How does it work !
are you at bed rest for awhile ?

A: This varies from person to person. I just had surgery on March 25, 2008. It is somewhat slow. Painful varies from person to person as well.

I had my surgery around noon on Tuesday, according to the doctors The surgery was about 4 or 5 hours. I was completely out during that time. I woke up in the middle of the night, not real sure because I was still out of it a little. Wednesday around mid-day they got me in a wheel chair and took me from ICU to my recovery room at which point they made me walk myself with a little help from the chair to the bed. They get you moving as soon as possible. I ended up being in the hospital until the following Tuesday, but that was because my blood thinner medication dose wasn’t correct yet, otherwise they would have let me go on Saturday.

I didn’t feel real bad pain after the surgery. The incision has never really bothered me but I did have pain in my shoulders and neck which is from them spreading the breastbone apart. The use of pain medications help that. They get you walking a little bit every day in the hospital.

Once you are released you should be some where you have someone to help you. You will be on restrictions of not lifting more than 10 pounds and you won’t be able to drive for a little bit. I found I needed help getting my shirts on and off at first and also my socks and shoes at times. You are never on bed rest. They want you up and moving as much as you can, but you will feel like taking a nap a couple times a day. Part of that for me was that I was not sleeping through the whole night. You won’t be able to sleep laying flat for a little while. An easy chair usually works best.

At this point coming up on 3 months after the surgery, I’m feeling pretty decent, but I can tell that I still have some healing to do. I went back to work after 8 weeks and for the most part I don’t have trouble doing anything in my day to day life.

Anymore questions, feel free to email me and I will answer the best I can.

Q: How risky in a heart surgery that involves replacing a heart valve, and fixing two aneurysm?
We found out that some one I know needs to have an open heart surgery because she was born with only two heart valves. On top of that they discovered two aneurysm in her heart and need to operate on her within a week. I know that all surgery is risky, but if any one can shed some light on this situation and possibly show me some statistics, it would be much appreciated.

A: Any surgery which involves multiple procedures to be done simultaneously will certainly be more risky, but with an experienced surgeon this type of surgery has a very high success rate. Some things to consider, though, are any other health issues of the person who is to have surgery. Age is a big factor, as is a persons activity level prior to surgery (more active people tend to “bounce back” more quickly). Also, smokers tend to have much longer recoveries due to lung issues (such as difficulty being weaned off the vent). Diabetics tend to heal more slowly, esp those with poorly controlled diabetes. Obesity also plays a large role, due to complications with infection, incisions re-opening, and greater difficulty with increasing activity after surgery.
There are many other factors that play a role – this is just a short list – and the surgeon will surely go over potential complications with the patient. Please let your friend know that you are there to help, but the first month or two after surgery is often hard on these patients as they struggle to recover. She may be reluctant to ask for help, but just doing simple things will be greatly appreciated. Make sure she has plenty of time to rest, and encourage her to eat, even if it is only a little – open heart patients tend to have very poor appetites after surgery!!

Q: VALVE SURGERY – THE PERFECT OPTION FOR THE PERFECT HEART?
After learning that I had severe stenosis and regurgitation in my aortic valve, I experienced the common mental and emotional problems of cardiac surgery patients. I was confused. I was scared. I knew nothing about open heart surgery or heart valve surgery.

My family and I searched the Internet looking for answers. Ultimately, that chaotic search produced more anxiety and I began suffering from insomnia.

What should I do ???

A: You need a lot more specific information from your cardiologist. Insist on it. Be polite but firm. Searching the internet can give you more information than you need. Your condition is specific to you. Only your cardiologist knows the details. Set down with him/her and have a long talk. What needs to be done to correct your specific condition? Surgery (a reasonable possibility) drugs? What steps can you take to help yourself? What is the recovery time if surgery is needed? What will be your level of activity? What is the long term prognosis? The internet is a good source of information but how much of what you read applies to you? Forget the internet for now, talk to your doctor.

Q: Curious About Heart Valve Surgery and Recovery?
I am a 13 year old girl, very healthy I have a Heart murmur and there is a chance I may be having this surgery due to many related symptoms and my appointment to see a cardiologist is still weeks away, so I wanted to know from people who have had the surgery what their experience was with getting this surgery done plus the whole recovery and Please no sugar coating.

A: Heart surgery is no walk in the park, but you are young and healthy. Once the decision is made that you do need surgery a lot of things will happen at once. Your cardiologist and cardiac surgeon will answer all of yours and your parents questions. You can also speak to a child life specialist, and they will be able to walk you though what will happen.
The surgery its self will take place in a hospital with an ICU that has a lot of experience caring for someone like you. On the night before surgery you will eat a lite dinner then nothing to eat or drink after midnight. Depending on the hospital, sometimes your parents can walk with you to the OR, and once in the OR you will have a whole team of nurses, anesthesia, perfusionist, and your surgeon to take care of you. The OR is normally noisy, bright, and cooled but you won’t remember this because you will be given “happy” medication to help relax you.
When you wake up in the ICU you will have a breathing tube (which will come out as soon as you are strong enough to breathe on your own), a foley to drain your bladder, IV’s, and tubes to drain fluid out of your chest.
Recovery will be slow at first, but most people are out of bed the next day, and moved out of the ICU and to a step down unit within 24 hrs. You will have pain, but they will give you drugs to help. Most people are back at home within 7-10days but it depends on how fast your body recovers. You will
feel better every day. And within 8 weeks you will be back to your old self.
Which valve needs fixed/ replaced? Aortic, Mitral? Research what type of valve you will get if you have it replaced- tissue (cow valve) or mechanical.

Q: Friend is having the new robot assisted heart valve surgery?
My boyfriend is having the new robotic assisted heart valve surgery soon he is in his early 30’s with regurigiatation (leaky heart valve) They were going to delay the surgery until the first of next year with the help of constant weekly check ups and medication but he is having chest pain not relieved by the medication that they are giving him now they have to move up his surgery for around the Thanksgiving time. The surgery is assisted with the help of a robot and they will cut open a small part of his ribs in his side vs the invasive mid sternum cut and they will put in a mechanical valve. He wont have the small cuts in his chest like other robotic heart surgeries. But he is very nervous about the whole surgery thing. But I told him that the the less invasive surgery hes having is less risky than normal surgery for I am positive on the high success rate of these surgeries. Has anybody had a valve replacement with the new robot assisted surgery and what are statitics of the robot surgery verses the old fashioned regular surgery?

A: No personal experience with this, but here is what I’ve heard:

It takes the surgeons a little while to get used to using the robot. It allows them to access areas that their hands are too big to get into without cracking open the chest. Apparently though, once they get used to it, they can do delicate surgery more easily than they can do it open. Of course, they are all trained to do the surgery open, so if there is a problem, they can always switch to that technique.

Any cardiac surgery is risky, but it sounds like it will be more risky for him NOT to do the surgery. It looks like his physicians are on top of what’s going on with him, so he should be just fine.

Best of luck to both of you!

Q: Is heart valve replacement surgery painfull? What are the chances of living after the surgery?

A: My mom has had it 3 times. And thankfully after the 3rd (within a 19 year period) she is the healthiest I have seen her in my entire life. Yes it is painful, but what surgery isn’t. Something that will help you is to get a big stuffed animal, or a huge pillow, to keep close to you because you will be coughing. You need to cough, and if you have something big and soft to hold against your chest, it will soften the blow. And try to have someone close to you stay with you at all times while you are in the hospital. That way you will have someone to take good care of you. You don’t always get a good nurse and you will be much more at ease if you have someone close to you there.

Q: After Heart valve surgery is done,how long does it take to remove the stitches?

A: Removal of stitches in paediatric patients is usually three to fve days. Again, this may vary from patient to patient. As a rule children heal fast, so the stitches come out fast. The following conditions will delay removal of stitches.
a. Presence of infection
b. Wound is not well approximated
c. The patient is not well nourished
d. Chemotherapy
e. other treatments are involved e.g. radiation

In adult patients stitches are generally removed after 7 to 9 days. The period will be increased if the patient is very old or has any of the conditions mentioned.

Self dissolving sutures do not ever need to be removed. They dissolve in the patient and the external bits just fall off.

I used to work in the ICU.

http://www.triond.com/users/Shergill

Q: What is the cost of Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery ?

A: Many patients travel from United States of America and UK to get low cost of Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery in India. One of the most frequently asked questions when considering Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery is “how much?” and “what is the price of surgery in India?”

Oftentimes, patients choose their surgeon on the basis of price.
The cost of Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery is very affordable in India and costs are much lower when compared to the United States, UK and other countries. However, since the success of your surgery is largely dependent on your choice of surgeon, cost should not be your main consideration for your decision to undergo Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery in India.

I checked out the website of Forerunners Healthcare –which is the premier most medical tourism company in India offering low cost surgery in India to International Patients. They have served more than 400 International patients from across the globe (especially US and UK) to get low cost affordable surgery in India at the best Hospitals and Medical Institutions. And the general price of the Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery is as follows-

The Cost of Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery in India is $ 11,000.

http://www.forerunnershealthcare.com

In India, any licensed medical doctor can perform Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery. To avoid unsatisfactory results, it is best to choose a surgeon who has completed an accredited residency-training program in Double Heart Valve Replacement Surgery. He should have extensive experience in the procedure you will undergo. That’s when Forerunners Healthcare come into picture-helping you get the best surgeon for your surgery at the most affordable prices in the best Hospitals of India.

Your surgeon’s skill can make all the difference between a good and an average result. Thus, although it is understandable that price is one of the considerations in your choice of surgeon, it is important to remember that the main consideration should be your surgeon’s professional qualifications and experience.

Besides that you should look into other issues related to traveling abroad, which is your visa, passport, climate, cultural issues and language barrier. Although language is not a problem in India –as most of the people are well verse in English. But you should make sure that you have a reliable hand holding person to guide you through the various steps of getting medical treatment and surgery in India.

Hope this helps.

Q: If someone has had quadrupal coronary bypass surgery and a stroke, can they go back to work?
So my mom was wondering, after having quadrupal coronary bypass surgery, and a stroke if it was okay to go back to work. She is worried about our monitary situation, and at this point is considering going back to work.

I would appreciate any answers or advice you all can give us.

Thanks so much.

A: It depends whether she is ambulatory ( meaning able to use arms & legs to move & do things ) & if her speech and/or hearing was unaffected. If she’s able to move and talk, she should be OK to return to work, unless the work is physically demanding.

Q: Does anyone know of any non-invasive, scientifically proven alternative to Coronary Bypass Surgery?
My dad who has been a diabetic for the past 25 or more years and is aged 65 suffered a massive heart attack recently. Angiogram revelaed 100% block in one of the main arteries and also 4 other blocks in other blood vessels ranging from 99-85% blockage. Bypass surgery is recommended. He does not have any other symptoms of breathlessness, pain etc.. Because he is a diabetic I am concerned about his healing process and recovery post surgery.. Any info is appreciated.

A: It depends on which vessels have the blockages in them. Your father has blockages in multiple vessels, which limits the options. Angioplasty with stent placement is an alternative, but it not as good when there is blockages in multiple vessels. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) was compared to angioplasty with stent placement in patients with multivessel disease and diabetes. Coronary artery bypass surgery was associated with significantly better outcomes in diabetic patients and it is currently recommended over angioplasty in diabetic patients with multivessel disease. In studies, CABG was associated with reduced need for revascularization, which means they required a repeat procedure to fix the blockages. The incidence of heart attack, stroke, and death was also reduced in diabetic patients who had CABG over angioplasty with stent placement.

There are risks and benefits with every procedure. The outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting are pretty good now. Uncontrolled diabetes does impair wound healing and is associated with worse outcomes with surgery. Therefore it is important to work with his doctor’s to make sure his diabetes is well controlled no matter what he decides to do. You should discuss it with the surgeon to review the different options and their risks and benefits. I would recommend that he gets the coronary artery bypass grafting, because the outcomes are better based on studies.

Q: How long does it take for patient to recover fully after coronary artery bypass surgery?
My brother went through coronary artery bypass surgery in early March has still been suffering from chest pain. Panadol does not work on him to relief pain. Is there any pain killer medicine ?

A: Many people have a lot of non cardiac pain after bypass which they mistake for cardiac pain. The actual cause can only be identified by medical evaluation. Psychological support will also go a long way in improving his status. Cardiac evaluation is a must to avoid missing of a true cardiac cause for the pain.

Q: would like to know if anyone knows the longest that a person has lived after coronary bypass surgery?
My father had bypass surgery in 1972, and is still living, would like to know if he is the longest living person after that type of surgery.

A: my mother has 8 angioplasties before she had a quadruple bypass and she was 69 when she had it and died at 80 from complications of diabetes

Q: How much does coronary bypass surgery cost in Australia?
It’s really difficult to get answers off hospitals unless you’re a doctor or a patient with a reference number.

I’m enquiring about local and overseas patients.

A: it might be like 5,000

Q: What are the pros and cons of a coronary bypass surgery?
I have to do a science essay and im hopeless in this subject so please help?

A: pro: Life
con: major surgery
that should get you started…

Q: May I know about risk rate on coronary artery bypass surgery?
If the person who went through coronary artery bypass surgery makes conscious efforts to keep her hit, can she live a long life like other healthy people?

A: Yes, as long as you keep all your follow up appointments with your cardiac specialist, and eat right. You can live a long life, as long as you take better are of yourself from here on. Get plenty of exercise. Ask your MD how to get involved with a cardiac exercise program, to strenghten your heart, and ask for a cardiac diet to follow.

Q: why is coronary bypass surgery a good thing?
I need this answered for my science class
i understand that it helps prevent another heart attack but why else is it a good thing?

A: There are a number of ways to treat blockages of the heart (coronary) arteries. First, you can treat medically by giving medicines that decrease the load on the heart. This decreases the amount of oxygen it needs and therefore the amount of blood it needs. This can help improve the ability to exercise, but in the end, does nothing to remove the blockages or improve blood flow. Second, the blockages can be approached from inside the arteries by cardiac catherization. Very fine catheters are sent up the main arteries of the leg (usually) and used to shoot dye into the heart arteries. Once the blockages are mapped, there are a great number of very specialized catheters that can either push open the blockages (angioplasty) or actually remove blockages (atherectomy). The arteries are then usually propped open using a special metal tube, called a stent. This often works quite well, and doesn’t require much of a recovery period. The last way is by surgery; coronary artery bypass grafting sometimes called CABG, ACBG and other acronyms. Surgery may be necessary for a number of reasons, but usually because the artery that is blocked either can’t be opened, and has to be bypassed, or if the blockage is in just the wrong place. If the blockage is in just the wrong place then patients can die during a catherization, or can require much more risky emergency surgery. In this case, then surgery on an elective basis is much safer. Lastly, surgery would be necessary if something goes badly wrong during an angioplasty.
Why is bypass a good thing? In short, it is the only answer when it is required. In addition, after surgery, there is less risk of sudden death than there is after angioplasty and stent.

There haven’t really been any studies that show that bypass makes you live any longer than angioplasty and stent.

Hope that answers the question

Q: why do i feel so hot all the time since i had open heart ( coronary bypass) surgery?
i had a quintuple bypass just like david letterman.
i don’t use nitor,but i do use a catapres patch as well as a daily aspirin. could either or both cause this “hot” feeling?
sorry nitro.
thanks for the answers. i think i found the culprit. i have been on imdur since the surgery and the extreme warmth is one of the side effects.

A: There are two possible explanations.
1. The most likely one is that you were put on a daily nitro medication or a patch. The active ingredient in this type of medication prevents coronary arteries spasms which can lead to a hard attack (infarction of the hear muscle). This medication simply dilates coronary arteries, but unfortunately it also dilates other arteries (especially facial and upper body arteries – which subjectively makes you feel hot).
2. The less likely explanation may be the result of the Vagus nerve damage during the heart surgery. It almost never happens, but this particular nerve regulates dilation of the blood vessels.
But if you take nitro – there is your reason.
hope it helps

Q: Coronary artery bypass surgery – How do they stitch the small arteries?
It’s interesting how they attach an artery to the aorta and the other end to the coronary artery. How do they attach (fuse) them those small veins together?

A: With very small sutures. Seriously. It can also be done under magnification.

Q: May I know life expectancy for those who went through coronary artery bypass surgery?
Providing that they make conscious efforts to maintain healthy life. Using vein for this surgery affect the patient’s life expectancy?

A: Typically, the saphenous vein from the leg and the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) are used for the bypass. Veins used either have their valves removed or are turned around so that the valves in them do not occlude blood flow in the graft. LIMA grafts are longer-lasting than vein grafts, both because the artery is more robust than a vein and because, being already connected to the aorta, the LIMA need only be grafted at one end. For this reason, the LIMA is usually grafted to the left anterior descending artery (LAD), which supplies the left ventricle, the part of the heart that pumps oxygenated blood around the body. Alternatively, an artery such as the radial artery from the arm, may be used in place of a vein. This is believed to prolong the life of the grafts but this has yet to be proven.

Prognosis following CABG depends on a variety of factors, but successful grafts typically last around 10-15 years.

Q: why is the vein graft reversed in Cardiac Coronary bypass surgery?
plz provide the links to the ans n details if possible,
thanks for ur help, )

A: vein have valves. valves allow one way flow of blood.
the direction of flow in the atrery is opposite to the direction of blood flow in vein.
so when u are using the vein as an artery, the vein need to be reversed

Q: what is the longest time recorded after coronary bypass surgery?
father have coronary bypass surgery in 1971. I’m trying to find out if his holds the record for the longest living person after this surgery.

A: Your question makes sense to me. You are asking if your Dad is the longest surviving coronary artery bypass grafting patient.

I’m not sure that the surgery was done in 1971—at least not commonly—so you may want to check the date of his surgery.

Q: how much does a coronary bypass surgery costs in california?

A: If its for you forget it and get some cayan pepper pills, 100% take 3 pills 3 times per day for 30 days and you wont need the surgery. It really works.

Q: Can the person who went through coronary artery bypass surgery live a long and healthy life?

A: Certainly you can . Take a look at my Profile.
I may have another one yet!
Who Knows?

For what it’s worth, I think diet & lifestyle are secondary to fitness. I hate to advise anyone anything but if I had to, I’d say (1) take the Cardio Rehab course (2) take the Advanced Rehab course, (3) join a Fitness Club and become Really fit and healthy, then (4) gently, regularly, stay that way.

Q: Is medication a life long affair after bypass surgery?
Coronary Artery disease(CAD) normally caused due to one or more of the following reasons:
1.Genetic make up/family history’
2.Smoking,
3.Diabetes,
4.Cholesterol,
5.Sedentary life style.
If one can have none of the above still then will he/she have to be under medication through out life after bypass surgery?

A: The type of patient described above still has to take certain medications for life. They are:

# Antiplatelet therapy — Clopidogrel and aspirin are antiplatelet medications that is given to help prevent the formation of blood clots that can block the graft. Clopidogrel is continued for at least one year after surgery while aspirin is usually recommended indefinitely. Keeping the graft free of block is the prime action that is necessary.

# Nitrates are often given to treat or prevent further episodes of chest pain. Nitrates may be given to patients after CABG if some of the coronary blood vessels could not be bypassed.

# Lipid lowering therapy — Almost all patients are given a medication to lower lipids after CABG. Cholesterol lowering can be beneficial both before and after CABG because it can halt the progression of atherosclerosis in both native and graft vessels.

Lipid therapies are recommended even for patients who have values that are in the “normal” range.

So, even this special patient needs life-long medication for good long term benefit.

Q: what happens when you start smoking 8 weeks after bypass surgery?
My husband was told smoking after bypass surgery would kill him. He was supposed to have a 6 way bypass and the doctor could only do a quadruple, he could not by pass the other two veins they were to far gone. He is only 50 years old and the doctor was shocked at how bad his arteries were 1 completely blocked, 1 90% blocked and 2 about 80% blocked he went a year with angina and never said nothing until he was traveling for work in mexico and he had chest pains there, he made a doctors appt when he got home, 2 weeks later he flunked his stress test in 4 minutes. He was kept in the hospital until after the open heart surgery. He was told smoking again would kill him and we his family members were told that as well, we were also told he will live a comfortable life, but not be the same. He says he feels better, and it took him 50 years to get into that shape, he probably doesn’t have 50 left so if he wants to smoke he is going. Is this really as devasting as I think?
None of us want him smoking,,,we cannot control when he isn’t around either. It is a nasty addiction to have. He was hiding it from me to begin with so I thought me catching him smoking and reminding him about what the doctor said would stop him. It just made him stop hiding the smoking from everyone. I am his wife and personally I don’t know why he bothered to okay the surgery. I just want to know the facts cause I scared of wondering when it is going to happen, I hate what it is doing to me!

A: If that man smokes again EVER he’ll be dead in no time – AND DESERVES TO BE I’m sorry to say – and furthermore, if You let him, you should be put away !!!! Has he NO sense? My God, he’s just got away with DEATH – let’s not beat about the bush – so if he wants to see the rest of what can be a long life, HIDE THOSE BLOODY F A G S !!!!!

Q: will smoking after heart bypass surgery harm me?
i want to smoke cigarettes again after bypass surgery, what is the posibility that it will harm me.
where can i find scientific facts that it will harm me.

A: The year is 2010. Tobacco companies have been taken to the courts, found guilty, paid incredible sum of penalties to millions of people, because their product was proven to be harmful.
Years, even decades of research studies, in some of the world’s biggest institutions have unanimously yielded the same result that using tobacco products is harmful to the human body. That includes the heart.

Smokers have been proven to have much shorter life spans than non-smokers. They stand a much greater chance of coronary artery disease, or other hart and lung related problems….
ALLLLLLL OF this, and you “want to smoke cigarettes AGAIN after bypass surgery”?

This is mind bugling. At first I thought this would render me speechless, but it didn’t. This is a sad moment. In fact, I think you should smoke. Smoke a lot, much more than you did before. The hell with all the work that went into saving you by cutting you open and fixing your heart.
The countless hours of research, meetings, symposiums, drug studies, working on veins and arteries, developing needles and catheters….They weren’t for you, they were all for those who actually wake up and realize what they have done to their bodies and decide to change course.

Smoke away…have a good short life.

Q: If a person has heart pain severl months after bypass surgery, is this something to be concerned about?
I have had bypass surgery and still have pain in the left side of chest, should i be concerned? BP and heart rate is normal.

A: Have you followed up with your cardiovascular surgeon or family doctor? You should be calling their office with this type of question. They can run tests, change medications, or help to resolve whatever the issue might me. Please call the doctor and ask to speak with a nurse or make an appointment ASAP!

Q: After gastric bypass surgery, is it true that a person has to take $150 vitamins?
I’m with Kaiser in Los Angeles, and am in process of preparing for gastric bypass. However, someone told me that after the surgery, a person has to buy these special vitamins that are expensive. Is this true? A multi-vitamin purchased at the drug store wouldn’t suffice? $150 is a heafty price for vitamins, even post bypass.

Any information is greatly appreciated!

(For anyone trying to talk me out of it, save it.)

A: I spend 20 on Balanced Essentials Liquid Vitamins (vitamin world at the mall) , 6 on NatureMade Iron (from walmart, you’ll only need this if you still get your period) 7 on chewable b12 (from cvs) and 7 on LifeTime Liquid Calcium Magnesium Citrate from Vitamin world (you want to always make sure you get a calcium with Magnesium in it because it will make you constipated with out it)
You’ll always want to shop around for everything, it’ll save you money in the long run. I used to get my stuff from a gastric bypass site and it did cost me about 150 a month but soon found out you can get everything you need at drug stores and walmart. The two things I listed from vitamin world, I highly recommend them. If you go into one, they will try to tell you that you need a whole bunch of other pills and stuff or more expensive ones, they are not needed and they are just a waste of money.
If you live near a trader joes, they have a lot of what you need for almost nothing.

Q: how long does it take for the soreness in your chest to last after bypass surgery?
I had bypass surgery 9 weeks ago. some days my chest is real sore and hurts from soreness. I am ok. How long will this last the sorness.

A: My mom had bypass also my old boss and they both said that it goes away little by little and comes back again but not as bad as before. the entire process takes about six months.

Q: What’s the best way to finance plastic surgery after gastric bypass?
I had gastric bypass surgery in 2004. My fore arm skin and stomach has not retracted like it should. I’ve contacted several surgeons in the Atlanta, GA area but unfortunately, they really prefer I pay out of pocket. I have Blue Cross/Blue Shield who will cover some of the expenses but the surgeons won’t even submit the paperwork to the insurance company. Any suggestions?

A: I woundn’t go and see a surgeon unless he/she would try submitting it to the insurance co. In some cases, insurance companies will cover a tummy tuck (for the reasons you are having the tummy tuck, it is called something else…I can’t remember what it is called) if you have problems such as sores or irritations due to the excess skin.

Check out www.obesityhelp.com

They have some really good information; although, I am sure you have already checked out their site….

Q: What is the reason for my symptoms after bypass surgery and please suggest the line of treatment.?
I had a major heart attack in the year 2000 and angioplasty with non medicated stent was performed on LAD. Again I had a problem of angina, so undergone coronary artery bypass graft one and half year years ago and I am now aged about 46
years. My three arteries were blocked (includind left main near stent) which were by-passed by taking memory arteries from my chest and one artery from my left hand.My total graftings were five. After than from begining I was complaining about shortness of breath and chest discomfort. My sixth month stress test and one year stress ECO was normal than also I am not comfortable. Now I started
getting heaviness in the chest during initial walk.I can climb two floors of staire cases. But after doing such activity I am getting chest discomfort witout angina and it remains for four to five Hrs. What is the reason for this symptoms ? Due to this I am not able to concentrate on my daily activities. Shall I
again go for sixth month stress test or angiography ? My medicines are Dilzem-30
(1-1), Ecosprine-150 (1), Betalog-25(1/2), Zyrova-5(1). I am doing regular yoga
and pranayam since last six months and evening walk for 30 Minutes. Initially
during walking I am not getting comfort feeling.My BP is 125/80 mm Hg.I am non
smoker.I do not have diabities. I am not over weight. Is it require to increase
medicine to over come my symptoms ? Please answer me.

A: I’m not a doctor so I don’t give medical advice. For medical questions I usually go to WebMD http://www.webMD.com they have a symptom checker on the right hand side of the main page or the Mayo Clinic help site http://www.mayoclinic.com/ they have on-line specialists to answer medical questions. Thanks

Q: After bypass surgery, is it normal to be put in rehab at a nursing home?
for physical therapy? The nursing home is very depressing as there are people in the last stages of life everywhere. This is having a negative effect on the mood of the patient, who does not need to be in a nursing home, only rehab. Is there a way I can fight to have him moved somewhere else?

A: While inhouse acute rehab (such as free standing acute rehabilitation facilities) sounds like a grand idea, the diangostic category underwhich cardiac bypass falls under does not qualify for acute rehabilitation under the Medicare payment system. Rather, subacute rehabiliation has been deemed appropriate after cardiac bypass. This often takes place in nursing homes.

Most nursing homes these days are rarely “nursing homes” anymore, rather, they are often a mix of skilled nursing/rehab and extended care. Chances are, this facility caters to both patient populations. In fact, the vast majority of patients in skilled nursing facilities are there for the very same reason…rehab!!! Most WILL return to community based living. However, nearly all skilled nursing facilities do have permanent “residents” that are there for long term care.

The patient after cardiac bypass will get all the necessary rehab they need in a skilled nursing facility. It would be futile to try to have him moved to an acute rehabilitation facility…because he just doesnt’ qualify…unless he’s had other complications such as a stroke or other neurological history.

Q: how long are you able to fly after heart bypass surgery?
my dad is having quintuple bypass surgery in germany. i know that it usually takes about a week before you are released from the hospital. i can’t find out how long after the surgery that you are able to fly. he’ll be flying back to the U.S.A. on a 9 hour flight. thanks…

A: People’s recovery from bypass surgery varies widely. As a general rule of thumb, people who do well with the surgery and therefore recover more quickly are those who are otherwise healthy in every other aspect – especially kidneys and lungs.

Sometimes people are released in a week’s time, but just as often they are still in ICU at one week. Indeed, I would never recommend that a cardiac patient fly very soon after a big procedure. You have virtually no support up in the air – and no easy way to get support – if something were to unexpectedly happen.

Once a month has passed and your Dad is off his water pills (lasix) to keep the fluid off of his lungs, then he is stable enough to travel, though he still will get very tired very easily.

Remember this is a big surgery. It is estimated that it will take a calendar year before you father has fully recovered from this procedure.

I hope this helps. Good luck.

Q: how long does it take for plaque to build up in your arteries after bypass surgery?
even if you didnt eat right all the time, how long on average? Thanks.

A: Most grafts on average stay open to a degree for about 10 yrs or so..

Q: did anyone continue to smoke marijuana after gastric bypass surgery?
I ONLY want to hear from people who somke pot. Don’t waste ur time telling me not to. Has anyone continued to smoke after gastric bypass? I had the surgery 3 days ago and I’m doing well, but I’m still smoking pot. Not ciggs, not eating, I’m a medicinal marijuana patient. A nurse I asked made it sound like I’d be fine. Did anyone do this?

A: How will it ever affect your gastric bypass since the smoke is sucked into your lungs, not your stomach? It won’t affect your bypass. You will still get high as usual. Is California the only state that allows medical marijuana and if so, is there a single person there that does NOT have a prescription for it.

This is the perfect example of why drugs cannot be legalized. See what happens in CA once it is allowed for medicinal purposes. Those doctors will give out a Rx for it if you tell them you have a hang nail. Too many people take advantage and will abuse it.

Q: How dangerous is engaging in sex 6 months after bypass surgery?

A: If you can walk up a flight of stairs you can probably have sex without too much risk.

Having no fun is also bad for your health. (no really, study after study proves it)

Q: would like to know if anyone knows the longest that a person has lived after coronary bypass surgery?
My father had bypass surgery in 1972, and is still living, would like to know if he is the longest living person after that type of surgery.

A: my mother has 8 angioplasties before she had a quadruple bypass and she was 69 when she had it and died at 80 from complications of diabetes

Q: what is the recovery time after bypass surgery?
im thinking about gettin bypass surgery but i wanna know how long will i have to be on bed rest because i have a 3 year old son.

A: From a triple bypass without complications as an example is most patients are discharged from the hospital 5 to 7 days after bypass surgery. The recovery time at home following that is usually 4-6 weeks before resuming work.

Q: Can a Heart patient (underwent bypass heart surgery) donate kidney to his brother.?
I under went bypass surgery for my arthocloresis blockages before 10 years. Now I want to donate one of my kidneys to my Younger brother of aged 54 years. I am 56 years old. Is it possible to donate kidney by a heart patient.

A: Your cardiologist and nephrologist are the ones to ask, not us.

Q: Is triple heart bypass surgery dangerous than most surgeries?
my english’s teachers father is having this triple heart bypass surgery. he got this three arteries blocked. i will say it is dangerous. what do you think?

A: It is dangerous, but it is probably more dangerous to do nothing.

I had a triple bypass earlier this year. The information I was given was before I signed the consent form indicated about two percent of patients did not survive the surgery. To some people 2% may sound like a small number, but when you are about to have the surgery it sounds pretty big.

One thing that made me feel a lot better was a talk with a nurse. She pointed out that 2% was an average, including people who were rushed straight from the emergency room to the operating room following a massive heart attack, people who were a lot older than I am, and people who had other complications such as diabetes, emphysema, etc.

So, while there is no doubt that the procedure is more dangerous than most other surgeries, the odds are much higher that everything will come out well.

Q: can anyone tell me about minimally invasive heart bypass surgery?
Im due to have minimally invasive heart bypass surgery soon and wondered if anyone else has had it? Having it instead of open heart surgery. Does anyone know anything about it? How long will I be in hospital and recovering? What are the scars like and will they be noticable? When will I be able to go back to work (am a teacher).
Any info appreciated! thanks

A: I had normal bypass surgery but I do know some who have had the robot surgery. You will still be abit tender/sore from the surgery site but you dont really feel much pain or anything from the inside bits of surgery. I had my vein harvested from my lower leg as it was an emergency situation and I had absolutely not one single problem with my leg.

As your surgery is planned you will probably have your mammary vein harvested for the bypass. I dont think you will even be able to tell or feel that it has been moved.

I imagine you will be in hospital around 5-7 days. I was in 12 days., I had a bypass,valve replacement and aneurysm repair as well as a major complication. They will get you up and walking the very next day. You will be surprised at how much you are able to do.

Probably by 4-6 weeks you will be able to return to work if you do well and have no complications. Lots of patients do well and have no major complications.

Q: How can I go about getting a second medical opinion for my father waiting for heart bypass surgery?
My father was told that he needs heart bypass surgery but that they might be able to do it because his veins are too far gone. I want to get a second opinion. What do I do?
I live In Chino California, If anyone can recommend a good doctor.

A: Check with another doctor, get his opinion and there you have it. What does your father want?

Q: Have you followed a diet and exercise program since heart bypass surgery?
I had triple artery heart bypass surgery in 2002 and have followed a diet and exercise routine. I wonder what other heart bypass people have done.

A: most prb go back to the same life style
good 4 u keep up the good work

Q: Is it safe to have a tattoo after triple heart bypass surgery?
I want to get a tattoo done but had triple bypass surgery almost two years ago, would having a tattoo affect my blood pressure, my medication etc, I had two heart attacks in the last two years.
Also diabetic
I will of course speak to my cardio but wondered if anyone else had one done..
Thanks..
and for the idiot that sent the stupid answer, hey, I am probably fitter than you now! At least they found out what was wrong with me, and unlike some my brain still functions:-) Bet you would have a job running a marathon, easy peasy for me:-) Go Figure!

A: i wouldn’t get a tattoo….being a diabetic also affects your ability to heal. A tatto is just a pretty open wound. But i would still contact your doctor. they usually know best.

Q: Can a person get disability benefits after having quadruple bypass open heart surgery?
My father is 63 years old and he is having quadruple bypass surgery this week. Can he be eligable for SSI benefits?
For those of you who asked, my father has not been steadily able to work in years due to his diabetes, which is another problem. Now he will not be able to work for many months and my family is going to be financially in ruins. He does side jobs now and then, but does not have any retirement saved up or any retirement plan to collect from.

A: SSI is for people who have disabilities from birth like Downs Syndrome, Autism, Cystic Fibrosis, etc or for people who were brain injured in a car accident or a similar accident. Some have never worked in their life. SSD is for people who become disabled from various medical conditions or have been hurt on the job and can no longer work. I know a guy who started having heart attacks at age 39 who drove a tractor-trailer. He had 6 heart attacks and applied for SSD many times but was always denied. Then he developed diabetes and still was denied. Then at 51 had to have 5 bypasses on his heart but still denied SSD, then the diabetes got really bad and he had to start on shots to control it. You can’t take shots and drive tractor-trailer so he got disability at age 52. Your Dad is old enough to retire and will probably make more money from retirement so why are you worried about getting disability when he can draw his retirement. I’m not sure you can draw both anyway. You’ll have to call the SS office but it’s doubtful he can get disability from bypass surgery. Too many people have it every year and they can’t just give it to everyone who has bypass.

Q: Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator versus Heart Bypass Surgery?
My friend was scheduled for heart bypass surgery but today he received an Implantable Defibrillator. I believe he was considered too weak for the bypass surgery. Does this take the place of the bypass? Which one is the “better” procedure? Anyinsight is greatly appreciated.

A: The first choice among the two is, of course, heart bypass surgery. But then patient fitness is cardinal in a major surgery like bypass. So if a person is physically unfit for it, then alternate way to manage needs to be found.

One of major causes of fatality in coronary heart disease is life threatening arrhythmias, particularly Ventricular Fibrillation. And Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator can presumably handle this complication.

So, even though both serve different purposes, the attending doctor has done the next best thing. There is no question of choice here.

Q: My husband had a triple bypass heart surgery in January of this year. Has anybody else experienced this?
How long was it before you had another one? Please tell me good or bad things you have experienced with your bypass.
10 points.

A: From what you have informed I feel your husband had a bypass surgery of three Arteries (i.e. triple vessel disease with 3 x CABG – Coronary artery Bypass grafting.)When the surgeons do the bypass surgery they do 2 or 3 or 4 grafting and there is not time gap between each grafting. The harvest veins from hand or leg and do the bypass grafting where the damage or blockade is there and it will be done in one stroke.

I had a 4 X CABG surgery in 1991 and again due to further damage of arteries I had another 3 X CABG surgery in 2002, which is a very rare case in heart patients. So you need not worry and he can attend all his rountine works after taking rest for about 1 month or so. His doctor Willl advice about the restrictions and it is very good to have the bypass surgeries in order to avoid the sudden heart attacks and untowardhappeningss. When the bypasssurgeryy is made the life of the patient will be safe for another 10 yearsat leastt. So do notworryry. Best of luck.

Q: How long can a person stay on a ventilator after heart bypass surgery?
My father had bypass surgery Friday and is still on the ventilator.

A: I’m very sorry to hear about your father. Whether or not he comes off the ventilator really depends on what else is going on with him. Is he stable otherwise? Are they keeping him sedated? Is he on many IV drips supporting his heart? Does he have COPD or asthma? How old is he and how is his health otherwise?
To be very honest with you, from personal experience, I”ve had a patient on the ventilator after bypass for months, because there were MANY complications. However, there is a large amount of people who are only on the ventilator for a few hours after surgery.
(I’m sorry I don’t know how old you are. Can you talk directly to the physician or do you need to get information from your mother?) If you’re an adult and have priviledge to his medical information, stay with your father and speak to the doctors when they round. (if visitation is restricted, ask the nurse to send the physician to the waiting room to speak to you, or even have the physician call you at home.) Ask them what they expect, and how long he’ll likely be on the ventilator, and ask why he’s been on this long. Your father likely has an intensivist or a pulmonologist on his medical case now that will be able to answer your questions thoroughly.

Q: Why would a patient not be a good candidate for heart bypass surgery and already have two stents placed?
My father-in-law is 58yrs old and used to be a heavy smoker. They have put in two stents and wanted to do bypass surgery. But they told him they have done all they could for him and he was not a good candidate for surgery. What are his chances of survival and why would he not be able to have the surgery?

A: Hi Bn,

You seem to know the answer. The answer is in your question, ” …used to be a heavy smoker.” He has smoked his lungs and saving the heart is not of much use without the lungs.

Q: Is it okay to have a cough after heart bypass surgery?
My dad just got heart bypass and is coming home tomorrow. But my mom and I both are sick, we have a bad cough. My dad still has stitches and stuff so what happens if he gets a cough?

A: He shouldn’t cough. He’ll have a clutch pillow to hold to try to not have his chest expand, which will hurt like crazy if he does. He won’t want to cough, sneeze, laugh, take a deep breath, or breath expanding his chest. He’ll do abdominal breathing. His chest should be wired shut, so it can’t open, but it can really hurt.

Tell them at the hospital you think he may catch this. They’ll consider having him stay another day or two.

Q: Does anybody know a foundation/ institution that sponsors free Heart Bypass Surgery here in the Philippines?
Hello, I’m mara and I’m just wondering if anyone if you knows a foundation/ institution which sponsors for a free heart bypass surgery? Thanks, your response will very much help our family.

A: Hi mara. I am from the Philippine Heart Center. We do heart bypass surgery for indigent patients. We need to see the patient first, determine if he really needs surgery. We will review the coronary angiography done (if it is already done) The financial and social background of the patient will also be evaluated . He or she needs to come to the outpatient department and the social service department will review the qualifications.

Not everybody who comes here are guaranteed totally free surgery. Depending on the financial status of the patient, the hospital might ask for a little contribution from the patient.

Q: Does anyone know alot about heart bypass surgery?
If there is anyone out here that has gone through any heart bypass surgery iw ould like to hear about their own personal experiences or the experiences of someone close to them–would like to know how it goes and what the recovery is like–I am mostly interested in the first couple days after the surgery–thanks

A: I had a triple bypass and I must say… It was not that bad. If all goes well, you spend just a day in the cardiac recovery intensive care unit and then off to the ward (or private room ) . They like to get you up and walking as soon as possible ( for a brief walk – 50 feet ) . I had 4 drainage tubes and felt liberated when they were removed. I had a 4 day hospital stay and then sent home to recover. Sneezing and coughing are a concern because it is tough on the chest area. I would go through it again, if I had too.

Q: How dangerous is it for an 80 year old man to have heart bypass surgery?
My friend’s father is having quadruple bypass surgery on Tuesday.He is 80.My father had the same,but when he was 65.Is it much more risky the older one gets?

A: It can be. It depends if they do it what they call of do it offf bypass, or on the bypass machine. If they do it off bypass his chances are definitly going to improve
Also there is a possilibity they can do the sugery through the ribs without openng the chest.

Q: Is triple heart bypass surgery dangerous than most surgeries?
my english’s teachers father is having this triple heart bypass surgery. he got this three arteries blocked. i will say it is dangerous. what do you think?

A: It is dangerous, but it is probably more dangerous to do nothing.

I had a triple bypass earlier this year. The information I was given was before I signed the consent form indicated about two percent of patients did not survive the surgery. To some people 2% may sound like a small number, but when you are about to have the surgery it sounds pretty big.

One thing that made me feel a lot better was a talk with a nurse. She pointed out that 2% was an average, including people who were rushed straight from the emergency room to the operating room following a massive heart attack, people who were a lot older than I am, and people who had other complications such as diabetes, emphysema, etc.

So, while there is no doubt that the procedure is more dangerous than most other surgeries, the odds are much higher that everything will come out well.

Q: can anyone tell me about minimally invasive heart bypass surgery?
Im due to have minimally invasive heart bypass surgery soon and wondered if anyone else has had it? Having it instead of open heart surgery. Does anyone know anything about it? How long will I be in hospital and recovering? What are the scars like and will they be noticable? When will I be able to go back to work (am a teacher).
Any info appreciated! thanks

A: I had normal bypass surgery but I do know some who have had the robot surgery. You will still be abit tender/sore from the surgery site but you dont really feel much pain or anything from the inside bits of surgery. I had my vein harvested from my lower leg as it was an emergency situation and I had absolutely not one single problem with my leg.

As your surgery is planned you will probably have your mammary vein harvested for the bypass. I dont think you will even be able to tell or feel that it has been moved.

I imagine you will be in hospital around 5-7 days. I was in 12 days., I had a bypass,valve replacement and aneurysm repair as well as a major complication. They will get you up and walking the very next day. You will be surprised at how much you are able to do.

Probably by 4-6 weeks you will be able to return to work if you do well and have no complications. Lots of patients do well and have no major complications.

Q: How can I go about getting a second medical opinion for my father waiting for heart bypass surgery?
My father was told that he needs heart bypass surgery but that they might be able to do it because his veins are too far gone. I want to get a second opinion. What do I do?
I live In Chino California, If anyone can recommend a good doctor.

A: Check with another doctor, get his opinion and there you have it. What does your father want?

Q: Have you followed a diet and exercise program since heart bypass surgery?
I had triple artery heart bypass surgery in 2002 and have followed a diet and exercise routine. I wonder what other heart bypass people have done.

A: most prb go back to the same life style
good 4 u keep up the good work

Q: Is it safe to have a tattoo after triple heart bypass surgery?
I want to get a tattoo done but had triple bypass surgery almost two years ago, would having a tattoo affect my blood pressure, my medication etc, I had two heart attacks in the last two years.
Also diabetic
I will of course speak to my cardio but wondered if anyone else had one done..
Thanks..
and for the idiot that sent the stupid answer, hey, I am probably fitter than you now! At least they found out what was wrong with me, and unlike some my brain still functions:-) Bet you would have a job running a marathon, easy peasy for me:-) Go Figure!

A: i wouldn’t get a tattoo….being a diabetic also affects your ability to heal. A tatto is just a pretty open wound. But i would still contact your doctor. they usually know best.

Q: Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator versus Heart Bypass Surgery?
My friend was scheduled for heart bypass surgery but today he received an Implantable Defibrillator. I believe he was considered too weak for the bypass surgery. Does this take the place of the bypass? Which one is the “better” procedure? Anyinsight is greatly appreciated.

A: The first choice among the two is, of course, heart bypass surgery. But then patient fitness is cardinal in a major surgery like bypass. So if a person is physically unfit for it, then alternate way to manage needs to be found.

One of major causes of fatality in coronary heart disease is life threatening arrhythmias, particularly Ventricular Fibrillation. And Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator can presumably handle this complication.

So, even though both serve different purposes, the attending doctor has done the next best thing. There is no question of choice here.

Q: Can a Heart patient (underwent bypass heart surgery) donate kidney to his brother.?
I under went bypass surgery for my arthocloresis blockages before 10 years. Now I want to donate one of my kidneys to my Younger brother of aged 54 years. I am 56 years old. Is it possible to donate kidney by a heart patient.

A: Your cardiologist and nephrologist are the ones to ask, not us.

Q: How long can a person stay on a ventilator after heart bypass surgery?
My father had bypass surgery Friday and is still on the ventilator.

A: I’m very sorry to hear about your father. Whether or not he comes off the ventilator really depends on what else is going on with him. Is he stable otherwise? Are they keeping him sedated? Is he on many IV drips supporting his heart? Does he have COPD or asthma? How old is he and how is his health otherwise?
To be very honest with you, from personal experience, I”ve had a patient on the ventilator after bypass for months, because there were MANY complications. However, there is a large amount of people who are only on the ventilator for a few hours after surgery.
(I’m sorry I don’t know how old you are. Can you talk directly to the physician or do you need to get information from your mother?) If you’re an adult and have priviledge to his medical information, stay with your father and speak to the doctors when they round. (if visitation is restricted, ask the nurse to send the physician to the waiting room to speak to you, or even have the physician call you at home.) Ask them what they expect, and how long he’ll likely be on the ventilator, and ask why he’s been on this long. Your father likely has an intensivist or a pulmonologist on his medical case now that will be able to answer your questions thoroughly.

Q: Why would a patient not be a good candidate for heart bypass surgery and already have two stents placed?
My father-in-law is 58yrs old and used to be a heavy smoker. They have put in two stents and wanted to do bypass surgery. But they told him they have done all they could for him and he was not a good candidate for surgery. What are his chances of survival and why would he not be able to have the surgery?

A: Hi Bn,

You seem to know the answer. The answer is in your question, ” …used to be a heavy smoker.” He has smoked his lungs and saving the heart is not of much use without the lungs.

Q: Is it okay to have a cough after heart bypass surgery?
My dad just got heart bypass and is coming home tomorrow. But my mom and I both are sick, we have a bad cough. My dad still has stitches and stuff so what happens if he gets a cough?

A: He shouldn’t cough. He’ll have a clutch pillow to hold to try to not have his chest expand, which will hurt like crazy if he does. He won’t want to cough, sneeze, laugh, take a deep breath, or breath expanding his chest. He’ll do abdominal breathing. His chest should be wired shut, so it can’t open, but it can really hurt.

Tell them at the hospital you think he may catch this. They’ll consider having him stay another day or two.

Q: Does anybody know a foundation/ institution that sponsors free Heart Bypass Surgery here in the Philippines?
Hello, I’m mara and I’m just wondering if anyone if you knows a foundation/ institution which sponsors for a free heart bypass surgery? Thanks, your response will very much help our family.

A: Hi mara. I am from the Philippine Heart Center. We do heart bypass surgery for indigent patients. We need to see the patient first, determine if he really needs surgery. We will review the coronary angiography done (if it is already done) The financial and social background of the patient will also be evaluated . He or she needs to come to the outpatient department and the social service department will review the qualifications.

Not everybody who comes here are guaranteed totally free surgery. Depending on the financial status of the patient, the hospital might ask for a little contribution from the patient.

Q: Does anyone know alot about heart bypass surgery?
If there is anyone out here that has gone through any heart bypass surgery iw ould like to hear about their own personal experiences or the experiences of someone close to them–would like to know how it goes and what the recovery is like–I am mostly interested in the first couple days after the surgery–thanks

A: I had a triple bypass and I must say… It was not that bad. If all goes well, you spend just a day in the cardiac recovery intensive care unit and then off to the ward (or private room ) . They like to get you up and walking as soon as possible ( for a brief walk – 50 feet ) . I had 4 drainage tubes and felt liberated when they were removed. I had a 4 day hospital stay and then sent home to recover. Sneezing and coughing are a concern because it is tough on the chest area. I would go through it again, if I had too.

Q: How dangerous is it for an 80 year old man to have heart bypass surgery?
My friend’s father is having quadruple bypass surgery on Tuesday.He is 80.My father had the same,but when he was 65.Is it much more risky the older one gets?

A: It can be. It depends if they do it what they call of do it offf bypass, or on the bypass machine. If they do it off bypass his chances are definitly going to improve
Also there is a possilibity they can do the sugery through the ribs without openng the chest.

Q: what are the complications of heart bypass surgery for artherialslerois?
my husband suffered a stroke the week after have a 5way bypss operation. the doctors never told him what the complications are for the surgery. I would like to know incase I ever need the surgery?

A: you should ask his doctor ,you will have the best results

Q: pain after open heart surgery bypass?
My grandmother whose 86 had open heart triple bypass surgery almost two weeks ago. It will be two weeks this coming Wed. Surgery went good.. She was anemic though. She is in nursing home getting rehab help. Her insurance is giving trouble on how long they will pay for her to be there. She has Humana Gold. Anyways, She is having sharp pain in her chest and in her back? Is that normal and how long can that type of pain last after open heart bypass? Thanks.

A: This could be normal, but it could also mean she has an infection, which is almost common here in the US. Have the doctor check her out to be sure.

Q: heart bypass?
since my dad had his heart bypass 6 months ago he is allways ill he was 1 of the fittist people i knew but now he has allways got headachs,pains,all the time do you no any one who has had this done and how was they.
it was a triple bypass and he was 58 years old

A: You must be aware that a coronary bypass, though common nowadays, still remains a major surgical intervention in the world. Also it is often a life saving/ life prolonging proceedure.

Different patients react differently to it postoperatively and some may have prolonged musculoskelletal pain or/and mild reaction to medication eg . headaches due to nitrates etc.

The best advice is for your Dad to discuss everything with his doctors who will surely have the answers as we are trained for that. Most people ,with time , regain their original mood and strength.

Best of luck

Q: Heart Bypass???????????/?
Ever since my father had his heart bypass operation,
he always has pain in his right leg (the one they cut to take the vein out) and it always turns reddish brown.
His other leg is just normal, and the skin colour is normal too.

We took him to the doctors to times, and they just gave him more medication.

Does anyone have any ideas what this could be?

A: Control surgical wound infections with antibiotic medications. Control diabetes strictly. Keep the leg in a horizontal position to avoid leg swelling.

Q: What guarantee does a heart bypass procedure give to a stricken heart patient?
Normally, how many years does a person who has undergone a triple heart bypass procedure expect to live some more assuming he has diligently followed all that is required of a patient under his condition?

A: It depends on whether they have other medical issues and how well those medical issues are controlled. It also depends on the type of grafts used, specifically arterial (LIMA) or venous (Saphenous.) Graft patency and survival are higher with arterial grafts, such as the LIMA. Grafts are typically patent for 5-15 years, but it is variable. As long as the grafts are patent, then survival should not be limited by coronary artery disease and would be dependent on their other medical issues. Outcomes after bypass can be improved by modifying risk factors, such as not smoking, controlling high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, etc. Compliance to medications is also important. Good luck.

Q: What is the difference between getting arteries from your arm for heart bypass instead of veins from your leg?
My friend had a emergency heart bypass and they used arteries from her arm instead of veins from her leg. What does that mean. They told her she was on the verge of having a “Widow Maker”

A: Sister,

I just avoided a widow maker.

Felt like crap for too long, went in for check up and they split me in half.
Veins from leg were taken and I have the scar to prove it.
I figure if the Doctor has a degree in anything other than Poultry Science, he is qualified.

PLEASE ask your friend to contact me if they have emotional issues after the surgery. Not to sound like a wussy, I have been a basket case after the surgery and can not figure out why. It makes no sense what so ever, but now I get all emo over the silliest thing, and I am a 49 year old guy.

Thanks,

Kyle

Q: Is it okay to have a cough after heart bypass surgery?
My dad just got heart bypass and is coming home tomorrow. But my mom and I both are sick, we have a bad cough. My dad still has stitches and stuff so what happens if he gets a cough?

A: He shouldn’t cough. He’ll have a clutch pillow to hold to try to not have his chest expand, which will hurt like crazy if he does. He won’t want to cough, sneeze, laugh, take a deep breath, or breath expanding his chest. He’ll do abdominal breathing. His chest should be wired shut, so it can’t open, but it can really hurt.

Tell them at the hospital you think he may catch this. They’ll consider having him stay another day or two.

Q: How can I go about getting a second medical opinion for my father waiting for heart bypass surgery?
My father was told that he needs heart bypass surgery but that they might be able to do it because his veins are too far gone. I want to get a second opinion. What do I do?
I live In Chino California, If anyone can recommend a good doctor.

A: Check with another doctor, get his opinion and there you have it. What does your father want?

Q: Is triple heart bypass surgery dangerous than most surgeries?
my english’s teachers father is having this triple heart bypass surgery. he got this three arteries blocked. i will say it is dangerous. what do you think?

A: It is dangerous, but it is probably more dangerous to do nothing.

I had a triple bypass earlier this year. The information I was given was before I signed the consent form indicated about two percent of patients did not survive the surgery. To some people 2% may sound like a small number, but when you are about to have the surgery it sounds pretty big.

One thing that made me feel a lot better was a talk with a nurse. She pointed out that 2% was an average, including people who were rushed straight from the emergency room to the operating room following a massive heart attack, people who were a lot older than I am, and people who had other complications such as diabetes, emphysema, etc.

So, while there is no doubt that the procedure is more dangerous than most other surgeries, the odds are much higher that everything will come out well.

Q: Have you followed a diet and exercise program since heart bypass surgery?
I had triple artery heart bypass surgery in 2002 and have followed a diet and exercise routine. I wonder what other heart bypass people have done.

A: most prb go back to the same life style
good 4 u keep up the good work

Q: What is the mininmum platelet count required in a donor to donate for a patient undergoing Open Heart/Bypass ?
One of my friends was refused a donation for a patient undergoing Open Heart / Bypass Surgery as his platelet count was 186. What is the minimum required level for this purpose and is 186 low?

A: It was unjustifiable, however their lab. values was 250,000 to 260,000, that is why your friend was refused. Lab. values vary from hospital to hospital, see below.
The platelet is a circulating anuclear fragment of a bone marrow megakaryocyte, 3 to 4 μm in diameter, with limited synthetic capability. The mean normal platelet count is between 250,000 and 260,000 cells/mm3, although there is a wide range of accepted normal values in most laboratories that extend as low as 150,000 to as high as 400,000/mm3.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bookshelf/br.fcgi?book=cm&part=A4562

Q: what are the risk factors for 72 year old haveing a triple heart bypass?
hi my mother is having a triple heart bypass next week. she is 72 years old had one previous minor stroke and one of her heart valves is twisted and has been probably since birth. she has an 80 percent blockage in each artery.
what would be the expected average survival rate for someone her age and what complications can occur after op.
she also has a lesion on the lower part of her heart.
how long does it take to recover as i dont know what to expect.

A: This is a very complex issue that no one could begin to scratch the surface of on a site like this. I will preface this by saying the best person to answer these questions will be the surgeon that will be doing the surgery…

Expected average survival rate: There is about 5-6% mortality (immediately after surgery) rate in people undergoing bypass surgery in the US. The number rises to 10% a year after surgery. This is based on her age group.

Other Risk Factors that can increase complication rates:
Age — patients over 70 are at a slightly higher risk for complications
Gender — women have a slightly higher risk
Having another serious medical condition (such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, kidney disease, or lung disease)
Previous heart surgery — puts a person at a higher risk

Complications:
Blood clots
Death (very small risk)
Heart attack
Sternal wound infection (this complication most often occurs with obesity, diabetes, or having had previous CABG)
Stroke (the risk is greatest in those over 70)
Prolonged ventilator dependence.

Lesion in the lower part of her heart: I would assume that by using the term lesion, that you mean another blockage. That will be taken care of during the surgery depending on the size of the vessel. (Really small vessels they cant always fix.

Recovery: Recovery is based on many things and differs between people. I would say a minimum of 6 months before she really starts to feel herself again. Other people say closer to a year. Things that will help speed her recovery are:
-Don’t smoke
-Eat a healthy diet
-Get regular exercise including participation in cardiac rehab
-Take medications as recommended by the physician including the agressive treatment of high blood pressure and high cholesterol

I HOPE YOUR MOTHER DOES WELL!!

Q: Is it safe to have a tattoo after triple heart bypass surgery?
I want to get a tattoo done but had triple bypass surgery almost two years ago, would having a tattoo affect my blood pressure, my medication etc, I had two heart attacks in the last two years.
Also diabetic
I will of course speak to my cardio but wondered if anyone else had one done..
Thanks..
and for the idiot that sent the stupid answer, hey, I am probably fitter than you now! At least they found out what was wrong with me, and unlike some my brain still functions:-) Bet you would have a job running a marathon, easy peasy for me:-) Go Figure!

A: i wouldn’t get a tattoo….being a diabetic also affects your ability to heal. A tatto is just a pretty open wound. But i would still contact your doctor. they usually know best.

Q: Where could my husband get travel insurance in UK for travel to America following heart bypass 3 years ago?
For several months my husband and I have been trying to get travel medical insurance for him for travelling to America. He is fit and healthy but the problem is he had a heart bypass operation 3 years ago and insurance companies either want to charge him massive premiums or won’t cover him at all.

Does anyone have any ideas as to which insurance companies are more friendly to people in our situation?

A: He’s a high risk situation. He’s going to pay high risk (massive) premiums.

He can’t get the same premium as someone who’s never had heart surgery. The company you got, that’s going to charge him massive premium, IS friendly to your situation.

Q: how long does a bypass heart graf last?
I had open heart bYpass graft done at 53 yr. that has been 7yrs ago. Will I to have it redone or that is all there is to it?

A: From the wikipedia link:

Prognosis following CABG depends on a variety of factors, but successful grafts typically last around 10-15 years. In general, CABG improves the chances of survival of patients who are at high risk (meaning those presenting with angina pain shown to be due to ischemic heart disease), but statistically after about 5 years the difference in survival rate between those who have had surgery and those treated by drug therapy diminishes. Age at the time of CABG is critical to the prognosis, younger patients with no complicating diseases have a high probability of greater longevity. The older patient can usually be expected to suffer further blockage of the coronary arteries.

Q: what is the longest life of heart bypass surgery patient?
after a successful heart bypass, how many years will a patient survive?

A: Prognosis following CABG depends on a variety of factors, but successful grafts typically last around 10–15 years. In general, CABG improves the chances of survival of patients who are at high risk (meaning those presenting with angina pain shown to be due to ischemic heart disease), but statistically after about 5 years the difference in survival rate between those who have had surgery and those treated by drug therapy diminishes. Age at the time of CABG is critical to the prognosis, younger patients with no complicating diseases have a high probability of greater longevity. The older patient can usually be expected to suffer further blockage of the coronary arteries.
This surgery does NOT prevent the coronary artery blockage from coming back. You can do many things to slow it down. Not smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and treating high blood pressure, high blood sugar (if you have diabetes), and high cholesterol will all help and are very important.

Q: Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator versus Heart Bypass Surgery?
My friend was scheduled for heart bypass surgery but today he received an Implantable Defibrillator. I believe he was considered too weak for the bypass surgery. Does this take the place of the bypass? Which one is the “better” procedure? Anyinsight is greatly appreciated.

A: The first choice among the two is, of course, heart bypass surgery. But then patient fitness is cardinal in a major surgery like bypass. So if a person is physically unfit for it, then alternate way to manage needs to be found.

One of major causes of fatality in coronary heart disease is life threatening arrhythmias, particularly Ventricular Fibrillation. And Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator can presumably handle this complication.

So, even though both serve different purposes, the attending doctor has done the next best thing. There is no question of choice here.

Q: What are the chances for open heart surgery to fail?
My best friend has a heart problem, and will need to do open heart surgery. We’re both really afraid that she’ll die. Does anyone know how many chances she has of surviving?

A: This statistic will help it’s an abstract hope it helps you out.
Change of the surface temperature of the leg during open-heart-surgery was determined in five patients, in whom either side of the femoral artery was ligated for cannulation. While the surface temperature at the patella was least influenced, that at the ankle paralleled closely the changes in the core body temperature and blood supply to the leg. Their difference(P-A difference) was studied to see if they can be used to predict prognosis of patients undergoing open-heart surgery. The P-A difference was followed for several hours after the open-heart surgery. It was marked positive when the surface temperature at the patella was higher than that at the ankle. Total of 54 patients were studied. Only one out of 29 patients with negative P-A difference succumbed. This is in sharp contrast to the 25 remaining patients with positive P-A difference, from whom as many as 12 died. In addition, the postoperative course of the 13 survivors from the latter group was more eventful. Since P-A difference seemed to indicate accurately cardiac output by reflecting the state of the peripheral circulation, it can be used as a useful parameter in prediction of the prognosis in open-heart surgery.

Q: What is open heart surgery like for an infant?
My daughter is going to have open heart surgery in a couple of weeks. SHe is 8 months old. I am just wondering if anyone can tell me what they went through and what I should expect. She is getting a large VSD fixed. Thanks!

A: If she has the procedure done at a children’s hospital, I am sure she would receive extra special care.

My son had head surgery at 4 months. They removed a 4″ by 5/8″ piece of his skull (Craniosynostosis). I think he possibly only remembered waking up. My wife was by his side save for the 45 minute operation. His face swelled up, but he still was smiling at the cute nurses. Heart and respiration monitors showed his relaxed and excited (painful) states and he was medicated appropriately – morphine the first 8 hours, tylenol w/ codiene the 2nd day, and children’s tylenol from day 3 on.

You will develop a huge respect for the human body in infant form. Your young daughter will show you a resiliance and tolerance that you will seldom seen in any adult. I predict one of your worries will be that she bounces back too quick, causing self injury before she is fully healed. I would worry about that, too.

You should plan to stay at her side 24/7. Bring some toys from home for her.

Best Wishes for Your Princess.

Q: How is the heart-lung machine put into effect during an open heart surgery?
During an open heart surgery, does the heart stop before they put the heart lung machine or they put it while the heart is beating? And also, how do they stop the heart?

A: when my son was having his open heart surgery, they put him to sleep, put him on a vent and then they opened his chest, and cooled off his body and cooled of his heart. once cold the heart beats slowly and they can insert the heart lung machine and then let that take over the function of pumping the blood and circulating it back in the body bipasing the heart so the heart doesn’t have to pump.

Q: How can I get an open heart surgery scar to disappear?
I am a 13 year old boy who has had open heart surgery 5 years ago. There is a scar about 7 inches long on the front of my chest. I want it to go away. Can anybody help me?

A: hi my daughter had open heart surgery when she was 9 months old .sorry to tell you that the scar dont go away it will probably fade and you may get chest hair to hide it but dont be ashamed off this scar for it is this that probably saved your life my daughter wouldnt trade her scar for the world she is only 5 years old now and loves her magic scar that fixed her poorly heart chin up kid and and any woman who thinks its ugly is shallow and you deserve better take care kid and keep smiling xx

Q: Anyone here who had undergone an open heart surgery at Philippine Heart Center?
Do you have a son/daughter, members of the family, friends who had a congenital heart disease and undergone open heart surgery in Philippine Heart Center? If yes, what can you say about the hospital (services, facilities, etc.). Who are your attending Pediatric Cardiologist and Pediatric Cardio Surgeon? Tell something about after the operation?

A: Hello,
I can only answer your last question. I have had open heart surgery to correct a patent foramen ovale (congenital defect, but more specifically an atrial-septal defect) back in 1999. There is a new way to do it now that doesn’t require open heart surgery, and if this option is available to whomever is getting the surgery done I highly suggest they go that route if possible. For me, I had to have open heart surgery because this particular procedure was 6 mos away from FDA approval.
The surgery is very invasive, but is done very often and has come a long way in the last 30 years or so. I did have a complication from the surgery that was worse than the defect I had, but after two more surgeries I was able to leave the hospital and have not had troubles since. My complication is fairly common in young patients, it’s called a parachardial effusion, fluid builds up around the heart and, if severe, as mine was (I had 5 cms all around) it can cause faiting and death. It happens because some people’s hearts will get irritated by being exposed/touched and will start to develop the fluid as a result.
As for the initial surgery, I was put in ICU for one day immediately after surgery for observation and because I was doing okay, they put me back in the heart center for about 5 more days, then sent me home. I was fine for a few days until the effusion started causing me to faint. If I hadn’t had the effusion, I would have probably been fine to be out and about after a week or so of pain killer and rest. I do remember going to the mall with friends and going out to eat before I started fainting, so that would have been…8 days after surgery! Not bad at all!
Good luck to you and the little one undergoing surgery. FYI, at the time of my surgery I was a 24 year old, I asked the surgeon to make the scar as small as possible, and he did manage to make it 2 inches shorter than most! So it doesn’t hurt to ask for these things!

Q: How much does Medicare cover for open heart surgery?
I am going to have open heart surgery soon,and I would like to know how much of the cost will Medicare cover.

A: They generally cover 80 per cent of their set price for such a procedure and yours is the remainder. If you have Medi-Gap insurance you are covered for the rest and if you have Medicaid that will cover the rest. The cost for open heart surgery depends on the doctor’s fees and the particular hospital’s charges, so we cannot answer that.

Q: What is life expectancy after successful open heart surgery?
My father-in-law had successful open heart surgery 9 months ago. We live in another country and I worry that my husband will regret not living closer to his father as he only sees him once a year. I wonder whether we should pack up and move closer to his parents. We are better off in the country we live and it is better here for our girls to grow up but then both our parents live in the same town overseas.

A: It of course depends on what kind of surgery your father-in-law is having and his overall health, age and other relevant medical history. You really need to discuss this with his Doctor. Certainly the main risk is during the procedure and immediately afterwards.

Q: Whats it like to have open heart surgery?
I am set to have open heart surgery in April and ive been reassured that after the surgery the actual heart doesnt hurt at all, thats good. But ive heard that the chest bone hurts. How bad does it hurt and how much pain/discomfort are you in following the surgery and for how long?

A: First things first, Bypass and Open Heart Surgery are NOT the same thing.

As you are waking up, you’ll hear everyone yelling at you. They aren’t angry… they are just trying to make sure you are awake and give you something to focus on. They will probably ask you some simple questions to make sure your thinking is clearing up. (What day is today? Do you know your name?)

You are going to wake up in the Recovery room (which they may call Cardiac ICU). You will have several IV’s in your arms, and you MAY be on a breathing tube. Don’t worry, that’s temporary — they’ll pull it later. They’ll tell you to take a deep breath and cough… keep coughing until it is out. It hurts a little and your throat will be sore, but that will pass. You MAY also have some drainage tubes in your body, those will get pulled later. They don’t hurt when they come out, but it sure feels weird! Also, you MAY have a Catheter… a tube that runs up to your bladder, because you aren’t going to be able to get up to pee. They will pull that out in time, also. If you are a guy, it (kinda) hurts… I don’t know if it HURTS, or it is just the thought they are about to pull a tube out of your manhood. Usually they’ll get ready to do it, and then someone will ask you a question that has nothing to do with anything. (Say, do you think the Giants can repeat next year?) And while you are distracted by the question and not thinking about it, they pull it out.

They will get you out of the bed pretty quick… at first they may just let you sit up in the bed, then later they will move you to a chair. You’ll hurt some…. you’re really hurting, you’re worried about hurting yourself when you move, and you are trying not to get tangled in any tubes/wires still connected to your body. But someone is there to help you, and it is good for you. They’ve discovered that if surgical patients lie still and rest all the time, they are more likely to get an infection!

No, your heart is not going to hurt. Your breast bone and the incision will. They will give you pain medication, use it! No one ever got better faster by suffering through the hurt! And after it finally stops hurting, it’s going to itch pretty good. Don’t scratch it! What you need to do is rub it gently, grit your teeth, and put up with it. When you HURT, use your pain medication, but when you ITCH, you just have to put up with it. Itching is supposed to be a good sign, it means that you are healing.

zThey will want you to cough to keep your lungs clear. That will hurt, but the clogged lungs can kill you, so just put up with it. Sneezing will be terrible! The best way to handle a sneeze is to grab the pillow (or bear) the hospital gives you, hold it to your chest, and just try to make it the lightest sneeze that you can. DO NOT COVER YOUR MOUTH! That makes it worse, it seems. Just let it fly!

Good Luck this April!

Q: How long does it take to get up and around after open heart surgery ?
I asked earlier but evidentally the answerers did not know what I meant.I am having open heart surgery again,this time for aortic stenosis.I was on a ventilator for a while after the last surgery and I can’t remember how long it was for.And now this time I am a caregiver so how long after having open heart surgery until I will be able to go back to my care giver duties ? Thanks.

A: Hope all goes well with your surgery.

If you are young and healthy, figure a day or two in the intensive care unit after surgery and another 3-4 days in the hospital. So a minimum of 5 days, maybe a week in the hospital. Then once at home, a month of no driving. Weight restrictions of 5 lbs to start and gradually increasing for 2-3 months before full lifting is resumed.

You are looking at a minimum of 2 months for the physical recovery of the surgery to allow for full movement and activity. This does not take into account though the amount of deconditioning you have from your aortic stenosis. I do not know how it has limited your lifestyle till now, but what I can tell you is that it will take some time to rebuild up your stamina and activity level.

As to being a caregiver, that can be stressful in itself, so my advice would be to ask other family/friends if they would not mind staying with you or lending some extra help for a few weeks after the surgery. There will be days where you just will not feel up to doing things or may need to rest a little more. And I know from my own experiences with caring for family members that it is a lot easier to ask and get the help before it is needed than to call someone at the last minute and have them assist.

Q: what are the chances of living through open heart surgery?
my grandpa is 74 years old and has to go through open heart surgery either this thursday or friday. he has 6 blocks and 2 are very bad. what are the chances?

A: Think very carefully about seeing your grandpa right after surgery. I kid you not — he will look dead. He’ll be asleep with wires and tubes going everywhere. It’s a horrible sight and if you’re the senstive type, it will haunt you. It’s something you might want to think about.

Good luck to your Grandpa this weekend. I’ve been on both sides of the OHS bed. Believe me, your grandpa has the easy part.

Q: I 18 yrs old and had open heart surgery at 10 days old. Can I still join the military?
I saw answer to question with individual with arthritis is automatic disqualification but didn’t see the answer to the open heart surgery.

A: NO WAY!! Thats an absolute disqualifier…

Q: What’s a open heart surgery? Is it the best method if an elderly person has blood clot in their arteries?
My friend’s mum had an open heart surgery and is now in coma.
When will she wake up? Is she in a “death threatening” situation?
Please enlightened me as I am most concern about this matter.

A: I would say calm down,support you friend,visit his mumif possible, stay positive and wait 48-72 hours before you become concerned and then get update from your friend , there is really nothinh you can do in this situation but provide emotional support and wait for her to get well.

Q: what is the best way of getting rid of scars from open heart surgery?
i have a 25 cm scar down my chest from open heart surgery. i like wearing tank and strappy tops but rarely do because i am embarrassed, also it stops me from going to to the beach or swimming. tips and tricks for helping it fade or get rid of it?

A: use coco butter you can get it at almost any place that sells lotion my niece had heart surgery when she was a baby and that’s what we used on her shes 5 now and their are only to little dots left of the scar best of luck !! =)

Q: How long should I be sore after open heart surgery?
I am 25 yrs old and had open heart surgery three weeks ago. However, I am still really sore. I walk a lot,but at time my incision is still very painful and where the drainage tubes were are still really sore as well. Is this normal?….and when will this all get better?

A: its very normal took me weeks after my open heart surgery to stop feeling sore.. just give it time it will be fine.. i will notice where the drains was will heal and become less sore allot quicker then incision.
good luck
x

Q: How do you preform open heart surgery on a beanie baby?
I was playing war with my beanie babies when Mr.Snuggles was shot in the chest. He is at the hospital but I don’t know how long Nurse Fandra can take care of him. Please he is on life support and he won’t live for very long!!! He needs this surgery! I need help!! I don’t know the proper methods of preforming open heart surgery, if anyone is a surgeon please answer. Thanks!! I hope Mr. Snuggles survives!!!

A: just rip him up lmafo