Our Summary

The ERAS guidelines are rules designed to help doctors use the best, most scientifically proven methods to improve patient outcomes and make treatment more efficient. These guidelines have been created through a thorough review of all steps of the process for heart surgery. They aim to reduce the length of hospital and intensive care stays, which in turn, should lower costs. These guidelines have been agreed upon by relevant scientific societies.

FAQs

  1. What are the ERAS guidelines in cardiac surgery?
  2. How do ERAS guidelines aim to improve patient outcomes in cardiac surgery?
  3. How do ERAS guidelines affect the duration of hospital and intensive care stays for heart surgery patients?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cardiac surgery is to follow the ERAS guidelines before and after surgery. This may include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and managing stress. Following these guidelines can help improve recovery time and overall outcomes after surgery.

Suitable For

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

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Valvular heart disease
  • Congenital heart defects
  • Aortic aneurysm
  • Heart failure

These patients may have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling in the legs. They may also have risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. Ultimately, the decision to recommend cardiac surgery is based on a thorough evaluation of each individual patient’s medical history, symptoms, and overall health.

Timeline

Before cardiac surgery:

  1. Patient consults with cardiologist and other specialists to determine the need for surgery.
  2. Pre-operative testing is conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and any potential risks.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative counseling and education to understand the procedure and what to expect post-surgery.

During cardiac surgery:

  1. Patient is anesthetized and surgery is performed by the cardiothoracic surgeon.
  2. Surgery can involve procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting, heart valve repair or replacement, or heart transplant.
  3. Surgery typically lasts several hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

After cardiac surgery:

  1. Patient is transferred to the intensive care unit for close monitoring and management of pain and other symptoms.
  2. Patient begins the recovery process, which includes physical therapy, breathing exercises, and medication management.
  3. Patient is discharged from the hospital once they are stable and able to care for themselves at home.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and cardiologist are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and adjust treatment as needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of cardiac surgery do I need and why?
  2. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow?
  5. Will I need any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?
  6. How will my pain be managed after the surgery?
  7. What lifestyle changes or medications will I need to take after the surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?
  9. What is the success rate for this type of surgery?
  10. Will I be able to return to my normal activities after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Pajares MA, Margarit JA, García-Camacho C, García-Suarez J, Mateo E, Castaño M, López Forte C, López Menéndez J, Gómez M, Soto MJ, Veiras S, Martín E, Castaño B, López Palanca S, Gabaldón T, Acosta J, Fernández Cruz J, Fernández López AR, García M, Hernández Acuña C, Moreno J, Osseyran F, Vives M, Pradas C, Aguilar EM, Bel Mínguez AM, Bustamante-Munguira J, Gutiérrez E, Llorens R, Galán J, Blanco J, Vicente R. Journal: Rev Esp Anestesiol Reanim (Engl Ed). 2021 Apr;68(4):183-231. doi: 10.1016/j.redar.2020.11.005. Epub 2021 Feb 2. PMID: 33541733