Open Heart Surgery in Noida, Delhi Ncr, India

Open Heart Bypass Surgery in Noida

Open heart surgery is a cardiac procedure performed to address heart-related problems, allowing surgeons direct access to the heart. The surgery involves opening the chest wall, cutting the breastbone, and spreading the ribs to access the heart. This method is commonly referred to as “cracking the chest.” Though it is a reliable way to treat heart diseases, it is typically recommended for patients who are strong enough to bear the pain.

When is Open Heart Surgery Required?

Open-heart surgery is indicated for treating the following heart conditions:

• Arrhythmias: Includes atrial fibrillation
• Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
• Heart Failure
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Heart Valve Disease
• Congenital Heart Defects: Includes atrial septal defect (hole in the heart) and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (underdeveloped heart structures)

Classification of Open-Heart Surgery

Open-heart surgery is carried out in two different ways:

1. On-pump Surgery: In this type, a heart-lung bypass machine is connected to the heart. This machine controls the functions of the lungs and heart, allowing the surgeon to operate on a non-beating heart. After the surgery, the machine is removed, and the heart resumes its function.
2. Off-pump Surgery: Also known as beating-heart surgery, this procedure is performed while the heart continues to beat and work on its own. This method is commonly used in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery.

Procedures Used in Open-Heart Surgery

Various procedures can be employed to treat an unhealthy heart, including:

• Repairing Aneurysm
• Repairing Congenital Heart Defects
• Performing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) to treat coronary artery disease
• Heart Transplantation for treating heart failure
• Replacement of Heart Valve for treating heart valve disease
• Placement of an Artificial Heart or LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) for treating heart failure
• Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICDs) or Pacemakers may also be used during open-heart surgery.

Preparations for Open-Heart Surgery

Preparation for open-heart surgery involves several important steps:

• Prescription: Patients should stop consuming certain medications or drugs before the surgery, especially NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
• Nourishment: Patients should avoid eating or drinking before the surgery as anesthesia works better on an empty stomach.
• Alcohol and Smoking: Patients must stop consuming alcohol and avoid smoking to prevent complications during surgery.

Complications of Open-Heart Surgery

Open-heart surgery carries certain risks, including:

• Stroke or heart attack
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias)
• Excessive bleeding
• Breathing difficulties
• Chest infections
• Low fever and chest pain
• Kidney or lung failure
• Memory loss
• Blood clots
• Pneumonia
• Allergic reactions to anesthesia

Steps Performed in Open-Heart Surgery

Before the Surgery

Several tests and procedures are performed to prepare for surgery:

• Tests like EKG (electrocardiogram) and chest X-rays help surgeons plan the surgery.
• Shaving and sterilizing the surgical area with antibacterial soap.
• Administering medications and fluids through an intravenous (IV) line

During the Surgery

Open-heart surgery is complex and may take 6 hours or more:

• General anesthesia is administered to put the patient to sleep.
• An incision of 6 to 8 inches is made in the chest.
• The breastbone is cut, and the ribcage is spread to access the heart.
• A heart-lung bypass machine is connected if it is on-pump surgery.
• The heart is temporarily stopped, and repairs are made.
• The heart is restarted, and the bypass machine is removed.
• The incision is closed with stitches.

After the Surgery

Post-surgery care involves:

• Staying in the ICU for a day or more.
• Moving to a regular hospital room once stable.
• Providing a soft pillow to protect the chest when coughing, sneezing, or moving.

Patients may experience:

• Constipation
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Appetite loss
• Muscle pain in the chest
• Minor swelling, pain, and bruising at the incision site

Recovery After Open-Heart Surgery

Recovery can take 6 to 12 weeks. Patients should:

• Care for the incision site by keeping it dry and warm.
• Manage pain with prescribed medications.
• Get proper rest and follow sleep advice.
• Improve heart health with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol.

Alternatives to Open-Heart Surgery

Surgeons may choose other methods depending on the patient’s condition, such as:

• Catheter-based Surgery: Involves threading a catheter to the heart and using it to perform procedures like stenting, coronary angioplasty, and TAVR (transcatheter aortic valve replacement).
• VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery): Uses a thoracoscope (small video camera) and surgical instruments through tiny chest incisions to treat arrhythmias, repair heart valves, and place pacemakers.
• Robotically-Assisted Surgery: Used to treat cardiac tumors, septal defects, atrial fibrillation, and valvular heart disease.

How Can Metro Hospitals Help?

At Metro Hospitals, we provide personalized treatment options and minimally invasive procedures to treat cardiac diseases, including open heart surgery in Noida. Our experienced medical team offers comprehensive care and guidance during the recovery period. The hospital follows international treatment protocols for better results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be done before the day of the surgery?

• Avoid eating or drinking after midnight before surgery.
• Take medications as instructed by the nurse coordinator.
• Shower with antibacterial soap.

How long does the surgery take?

Open heart surgery may take three to six hours or more, depending on the type of surgery.

What is the hospital stay duration after surgery?

Patients typically stay in the hospital for 5 to 7 days, depending on recovery.

How can the patient manage pain?

Follow the doctor’s prescription, which may include painkillers, intravenous medication, or pumps.

What physical activities can the patient do after the surgery?

Patients are encouraged to walk three to four times daily. The nursing staff and physical therapists will guide and monitor the patient’s progress.