Our Summary

This article is a review of seven major studies conducted in 2016 that used data from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database, a massive collection of over 6 million records covering nearly all adult heart surgeries in the U.S. These studies used the data to analyze trends in heart surgery practices, examine the impact of various risk factors on patient health after surgery, and create new models to assess the quality of care patients receive. The results of these studies have improved the way heart surgery is practiced and highlighted areas that need more research to improve the quality of care.

FAQs

  1. What data source was used in the seven major studies conducted in 2016 about cardiac surgery?
  2. What were the objectives of the studies conducted using data from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database?
  3. How have the results of these studies impacted the practice of heart surgery?

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 surgery. This can include maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress levels. These lifestyle changes can help improve the success of the surgery and promote overall heart health. Additionally, it is important for patients to closely follow their post-operative care instructions, attend all follow-up appointments, and communicate any concerns or symptoms to their healthcare team.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended cardiac surgery include those with severe coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, congenital heart defects, aortic aneurysms, and other conditions that cannot be effectively managed with medication or less invasive procedures. Additionally, patients who have experienced a heart attack or heart failure may also be recommended for cardiac surgery to improve their heart function and quality of life. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a cardiologist and cardiothoracic surgeon to determine if they are suitable candidates for cardiac surgery and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before cardiac surgery:

  1. Diagnosis: The patient is diagnosed with a heart condition that requires surgical intervention, such as coronary artery disease or heart valve problems.
  2. Preoperative evaluation: The patient undergoes various tests and evaluations to determine their overall health and fitness for surgery, including blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with various specialists.
  3. Informed consent: The patient meets with their surgeon to discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as alternative treatment options. Informed consent is obtained before proceeding with the surgery.

After cardiac surgery:

  1. Immediate postoperative care: The patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) immediately following surgery to ensure their stability and recovery. They may be on a ventilator, have various tubes and monitors in place, and be receiving medications for pain and other symptoms.
  2. Recovery in the hospital: The patient continues to recover in the hospital for several days to a week, depending on the type of surgery and their individual progress. Physical therapy and other rehabilitation services may be provided to help with recovery.
  3. Discharge and follow-up care: Once the patient is stable and able to care for themselves, they are discharged from the hospital with instructions for postoperative care, medications, and follow-up appointments. They may need to attend cardiac rehabilitation programs to improve their heart health and recovery.
  4. Long-term follow-up: The patient continues to be monitored by their healthcare team in the months and years following surgery to ensure their heart health remains stable and to address any potential complications or new issues that may arise. Regular follow-up appointments, tests, and lifestyle changes may be recommended to support their long-term recovery and well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of cardiac surgery do I need and why?
  2. What are the benefits and risks of the surgery?
  3. How many times have you performed this particular surgery?
  4. What is your success rate with this type of surgery?
  5. What is the recovery process like and how long will it take?
  6. What lifestyle changes will I need to make after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options available?
  8. What are the potential complications associated with the surgery?
  9. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  10. What is the long-term outlook for my heart health after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Thourani VH, Badhwar V, Shahian DM, Edwards FH, O’Brien S, Habib RH, Kelly JJ, Rankin JS, Prager R, Jacobs JP. Journal: Ann Thorac Surg. 2017 Jul;104(1):22-28. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2017.05.013. Epub 2017 Jun 1. PMID: 28577849