Our Summary

The Cleveland Clinic, established in 1921, has been a pioneering medical institution with a special focus on heart-related diseases. The clinic has been at the forefront of multiple breakthroughs in the field of heart surgeries. They were instrumental in developing coronary angiography, a procedure that uses dye and special x-rays to see how blood flows through the heart. They have also made significant contributions to the development and advancement of coronary artery bypass grafting, a surgical procedure that improves blood flow to the heart.

More recently, the clinic has made significant strides in treating heart valve diseases. Their approach to cardiac surgery involves a mix of innovation and a careful study of patient outcomes. This means they’re not only focused on inventing new procedures but also on making sure these procedures are effective and safe for patients.

FAQs

  1. What is the Cleveland Clinic’s history and focus in the medical field?
  2. How has the Cleveland Clinic contributed to advances in cardiac surgery?
  3. What techniques or procedures have been developed at the Cleveland Clinic related to the management of heart valve diseases?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cardiac surgery is to follow a healthy lifestyle before and after the procedure. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These habits can help improve overall heart health and promote a successful recovery from surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for cardiac surgery include those with severe coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, congenital heart defects, and other conditions that cannot be managed effectively with medication or less invasive procedures. Additionally, patients who have experienced a heart attack, heart failure, or complications from previous cardiac procedures may also be recommended for surgery. The decision to undergo cardiac surgery is typically made by a team of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals who carefully evaluate each patient’s individual circumstances and risk factors.

Timeline

Before cardiac surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with a cardiac condition that requires surgical intervention.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluations to assess their overall health and readiness for surgery.
  • Patient may receive education on the surgical procedure, potential risks, and post-operative care.
  • Patient may undergo additional procedures or treatments to optimize their condition before surgery.

After cardiac surgery:

  • Patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit immediately after surgery.
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the days following surgery.
  • Patient undergoes physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and function.
  • Patient may require medication to manage pain, prevent infection, and control blood pressure.
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor their recovery and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific reason for recommending cardiac surgery for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for patients with my condition?
  4. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  5. Will I need any follow-up care or ongoing treatment after the surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with surgery?
  7. How many times have you performed this type of surgery and what is your success rate?
  8. What is the expected outcome after the surgery in terms of improving my condition and quality of life?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or medications I will need to adhere to post-surgery?
  10. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery and what kind of support will be available during my recovery?

Reference

Authors: Gillinov M, Szilagyi S, Svensson LG. Journal: Semin Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2016 Autumn;28(3):634-640. doi: 10.1053/j.semtcvs.2016.12.001. Epub 2016 Dec 9. PMID: 28285668