Our Summary

This research paper discusses the importance of verbal communication during coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgeries - a type of heart surgery. The researchers found that there isn’t currently a standard for this type of communication, which could potentially lead to mistakes during surgery. They decided to identify the most important aspects of communication between the three key roles in the surgery: the surgeons, anesthetists, and perfusionists.

They found 64 critical points that need to be communicated during the surgery. These were identified through analysing video recordings of the surgery, and interviews with the surgical team. The researchers found that these key points were spoken about in just over half of the surgeries they observed.

The study also found that the main type of communication was giving instructions and updating on the patient’s status. Most of the communication was between two of the three roles and was in the form of a call and response. However, the study found that communication was not often directed at a specific person by their name.

The research has helped to develop a list of key communication points that can be used to improve the safety and efficiency of this type of heart surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the significance of verbal communication in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgeries?
  2. How did the researchers identify the critical points that need to be communicated during CABG surgery?
  3. What types of communication were most commonly observed during the surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

One important tip that a doctor might tell a patient about CABG is to closely follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the healthcare team. This may include instructions on medication management, dietary restrictions, and lifestyle modifications. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful surgery and recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for CABG are those with severe coronary artery disease, which is caused by a build-up of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. This can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and in severe cases, heart attack. Patients who have not responded well to medication or other less invasive treatments may be recommended for CABG. Additionally, patients with multiple blockages in their coronary arteries, left main coronary artery disease, or those with diabetes may also be candidates for CABG. It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with their healthcare provider to determine if CABG is the best treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before undergoing CABG surgery, a patient typically experiences symptoms of coronary artery disease such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. They may undergo diagnostic tests such as a coronary angiogram to determine the extent of blockages in their arteries. Once it is determined that CABG surgery is necessary, the patient will undergo pre-operative evaluations and preparations.

During CABG surgery, the patient is placed under general anesthesia and the surgeon harvests a healthy blood vessel, usually from the leg or chest, to use as a graft to bypass the blocked coronary arteries. The surgery itself can take several hours, during which the patient is closely monitored by the surgical team including surgeons, anesthetists, and perfusionists.

After CABG surgery, the patient is typically transferred to a cardiac intensive care unit for recovery and monitoring. They will receive pain management, medication to prevent infection, and physical therapy to aid in their recovery. The patient will also undergo cardiac rehabilitation to improve their overall heart health and recovery.

Overall, the patient may experience a gradual improvement in their symptoms and quality of life following CABG surgery. It is important for the patient to follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations for medication, diet, exercise, and follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about CABG include:

  1. What is the purpose of the surgery and how will it benefit me?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with CABG?
  3. What is the recovery process like and how long will it take?
  4. Will I need any follow-up appointments or tests after the surgery?
  5. What lifestyle changes will I need to make after the surgery?
  6. How experienced is the surgical team in performing CABG procedures?
  7. What is the success rate of CABG surgeries at this hospital?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments to CABG that I should consider?
  9. How will my medications be managed before and after the surgery?
  10. Are there any specific instructions or guidelines I should follow before the surgery?

Reference

Authors: de Lind van Wijngaarden RAF, Siregar S, Legué J, Fraaije A, Abbas A, Dankelman J, Klautz RJM. Journal: Semin Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2019 Autumn;31(3):383-391. doi: 10.1053/j.semtcvs.2018.12.001. Epub 2018 Dec 8. PMID: 30537534