Our Summary

In 1928, the University of Michigan started a training program for chest surgeons under the guidance of Dr. John Alexander. At first, these surgeons mainly dealt with chest diseases like tuberculosis. But now, they treat a whole range of diseases, including birth defects in the heart and lungs, chest cancers, and diseases of the heart and major blood vessels that develop over time. The training program and the medical center itself have changed over the years to reflect the evolving field of chest surgery.

FAQs

  1. When did the University of Michigan start its training program for chest surgeons?
  2. What kinds of diseases do these surgeons trained under the University of Michigan program treat now?
  3. How has the training program and the medical center evolved over the years?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cardiac surgery is to follow pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting before the surgery and stopping certain medications as directed. This can help reduce the risk of complications during and after the surgery. Additionally, it’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or questions you may have before, during, and after the procedure. This can help ensure the best possible outcome and recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for cardiac surgery include those with:

  1. Coronary artery disease: Patients with significant blockages in their coronary arteries that are causing chest pain (angina) or increasing their risk of a heart attack may be recommended for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery.

  2. Valvular heart disease: Patients with damaged or malfunctioning heart valves, such as aortic stenosis or mitral regurgitation, may be recommended for valve repair or replacement surgery.

  3. Congenital heart defects: Children and adults born with structural abnormalities in their heart may require surgery to correct the defect and improve heart function.

  4. Aortic aneurysm: Patients with an enlarged or weakened area in the aorta, the body’s main artery, may be recommended for surgery to repair the aneurysm and prevent a potentially life-threatening rupture.

  5. Heart failure: Patients with advanced heart failure that is not responding to medical treatment may be recommended for heart transplant or ventricular assist device (VAD) surgery to improve heart function and quality of life.

  6. Arrhythmias: Patients with abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, may be recommended for surgery to correct the rhythm disorder and restore normal heart function.

  7. Other conditions: Patients with certain types of heart tumors, infections, or other rare conditions may also be recommended for cardiac surgery to treat their specific condition.

Timeline

Before cardiac surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a heart condition that requires surgical intervention.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to assess their overall health and determine the best course of treatment.
  3. Patient receives counseling and education about the surgery, potential risks, and post-operative care.
  4. Patient may be required to make lifestyle changes or take medications to prepare for surgery.

After cardiac surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which can vary depending on the specific condition being treated.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit immediately following surgery to ensure stable vital signs and recovery.
  3. Patient transitions to a regular hospital room for further recovery and rehabilitation.
  4. Patient receives physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues follow-up care with their medical team to monitor recovery and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of cardiac surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. How experienced are you in performing this specific type of cardiac surgery?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  4. What is the expected outcome and recovery time after the surgery?
  5. Will I need any additional tests or procedures before the surgery?
  6. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  7. What kind of post-operative care and rehabilitation will be required?
  8. What lifestyle changes will I need to make after the surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  10. What is the long-term prognosis for my condition after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Prager RL, Bove EL, Chang AC, Orringer MB. Journal: Semin Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2016 Autumn;28(3):705-711. doi: 10.1053/j.semtcvs.2016.08.017. Epub 2016 Sep 28. PMID: 28285677