Our Summary

This research paper investigates the difference in outcomes between two types of heart surgeries. The two surgeries studied are a minimally invasive procedure performed on a beating heart via a small incision in the chest (OPBMS), and a traditional procedure that involves a larger incision through the breastbone (SSMS). These surgeries were performed on patients who already had a previous heart bypass surgery.

Between 2009 and 2015, 12 patients underwent the minimally invasive procedure and 6 patients underwent the traditional procedure. The study found that there were no early deaths in the group that underwent the minimally invasive procedure, but there was one death in the traditional surgery group.

The minimally invasive procedure also resulted in significantly less blood loss during surgery compared to the traditional method. The number of patients who needed a blood transfusion was similar in both groups. There was one stroke and one heart attack in the traditional surgery group.

A similar number of patients developed kidney failure in both groups. Before the patients were discharged from the hospital, tests showed that all patients had only minor or no leaking of blood through the mitral valve, which is a good outcome.

In conclusion, the study suggests that the minimally invasive procedure is a safe and effective alternative to traditional surgery for patients who have already had a heart bypass. The key advantages of the minimally invasive method are that it avoids a large incision through the breastbone and reduces the amount of blood loss after surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the risk associated with redo mitral valve surgery in patients with patent coronary bypass grafts?
  2. What are the findings of the study comparing the results of reoperative minimally invasive on-pump beating heart mitral valve surgery via mini thoracotomy and standard sternotomy mitral valve surgery?
  3. What are the main benefits of performing redo mitral surgery via minimally invasive mini thoracotomy on a beating heart?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about heart bypass surgery is to consider minimally invasive on-pump beating heart surgery through a mini thoracotomy as it can lead to lower blood loss and potentially reduce the risk of complications compared to standard sternotomy surgery. It is important to discuss all options with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual case.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for heart bypass surgery typically have severe coronary artery disease, which is often caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and an increased risk of heart attack. Patients with multiple blocked arteries, those who have not responded well to other treatments such as medication or lifestyle changes, and those at high risk for heart attack or other complications are often candidates for heart bypass surgery. Additionally, patients who have previously undergone heart bypass surgery and have developed new blockages in their coronary arteries may also be recommended for a repeat bypass procedure.

Timeline

Before heart bypass surgery, a patient may experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue due to blocked arteries in the heart. They may undergo tests such as a coronary angiogram to determine the extent of blockages and assess the need for bypass surgery.

After heart bypass surgery, the patient will typically spend a few days in the hospital for recovery and monitoring. They will be prescribed medications to prevent blood clots and manage pain. The patient will also be advised to make lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise to improve heart health. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and cardiologist will be scheduled to monitor progress and ensure a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of undergoing heart bypass surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of minimally invasive on-pump beating heart mitral valve surgery compared to standard sternotomy mitral valve surgery in patients with patent coronary bypass grafts?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be after undergoing heart bypass surgery?
  4. What lifestyle changes or medications will I need to take after the surgery?
  5. Are there any specific complications or side effects I should be aware of after the surgery?
  6. How frequently will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  7. Are there any restrictions on physical activity or diet that I should be aware of post-surgery?
  8. What is the long-term outlook for someone who undergoes heart bypass surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options I should consider before deciding on heart bypass surgery?
  10. How experienced is the surgical team in performing minimally invasive on-pump beating heart mitral valve surgery?

Reference

Authors: Ghoneim A, Bouhout I, Mazine A, Fortin W, El-Hamamsy I, Jeanmart H, Pellerin M, Bouchard D. Journal: Can J Cardiol. 2016 Aug;32(8):987.e1-6. doi: 10.1016/j.cjca.2015.09.016. Epub 2015 Sep 28. PMID: 26838664