Our Summary

The Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons have made a joint effort to create a section within the Adult Cardiac Surgery Database specifically for the study of adult cardiac anesthesiology. The aim of this partnership is to improve patient care and our understanding of cardiac anesthesiology’s role in the care of patients undergoing heart surgery.

Since it was introduced in 2014, participation in this section of the database has increased, though there is still room for further growth. This report provides a summary of the first update on the quality and outcomes of the Adult Cardiac Anesthesiology Section. It covers the key findings from the data submitted between 2015 and 2018, which include information on important anesthesia and surgical factors.

This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of practice in the field of heart anesthesiology. Moreover, it highlights the potential for future research that could help clarify how anesthesiology contributes to patient outcomes within the cardiac surgery team.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the Adult Cardiac Surgery Database created by The Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons?
  2. What were some of the key findings from the data submitted to the Adult Cardiac Anesthesiology Section between 2015 and 2018?
  3. How does the review contribute to the understanding and potential future research of anesthesiology’s role in cardiac surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cardiac surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the healthcare team. This may include medications to take or avoid, fasting guidelines, and other important preparations. By following these instructions, patients can help ensure a successful surgery and recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for cardiac surgery include those with coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, congenital heart defects, aortic aneurysms, and other conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. These patients may have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or irregular heart rhythms that require surgical intervention to improve their heart function and quality of life. Patients with severe heart disease that cannot be managed with medications or other treatments may also be candidates for cardiac surgery.

Timeline

Before cardiac surgery:

  • Patient undergoes preoperative evaluation, including medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests
  • Anesthesia team assesses patient’s overall health and determines the best anesthesia plan for the surgery
  • Patient is prepped for surgery, which may include fasting, medication adjustments, and other preparations
  • Surgery is performed by the cardiothoracic surgeon, with the anesthesia team providing support and monitoring throughout the procedure

After cardiac surgery:

  • Patient is transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring and recovery
  • Anesthesia team continues to manage pain, sedation, and other critical care needs post-surgery
  • Patient gradually transitions to a regular hospital room as they recover and regain strength
  • Anesthesia team monitors for any complications or issues that may arise during the recovery process
  • Patient undergoes rehabilitation and follow-up care to ensure optimal recovery and long-term heart health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about cardiac surgery include:

  1. What type of cardiac surgery do I need and why?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of improving my heart health?
  4. How experienced are you and the surgical team in performing this specific type of cardiac surgery?
  5. What is the recovery process like and how long will it take?
  6. What kind of follow-up care will I need after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options available besides surgery?
  8. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my chances of a successful outcome?
  9. How will my ongoing heart condition be managed after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make post-surgery to maintain heart health?

Reference

Authors: Del Rio JM, Jake Abernathy J 3rd, Taylor MA, Habib RH, Fernandez FG, Bollen BA, Lauer RE, Nussmeier NA, Glance LG, Petty JV 3rd, Mackensen GB, Vener DF, Kertai MD. Journal: J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth. 2021 Jan;35(1):22-34. doi: 10.1053/j.jvca.2020.08.005. Epub 2020 Sep 29. PMID: 33008722