Our Summary

The Adult Cardiac Database (ACSD) by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons is a worldwide project that forms the basis for our improvement efforts in heart-related medical performance and quality. With about six million patient records, the ACSD is a substantial resource for medical research. In 2015, seven major original research papers and four review articles were produced using the ACSD. The studies, which analyzed risk-adjusted outcomes and quality measures, have significantly contributed to informing everyday medical practice. This report gives a summary of the research published in 2015 that is based on the ACSD.

FAQs

  1. What is the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Database (ACSD)?
  2. How many patient records does the ACSD contain and how is it utilized in clinical research?
  3. What contributions have the risk-adjusted outcome analyses and quality measures reported in ACSD-based research made to daily clinical practice?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about thoracic surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting guidelines and any medication adjustments. It is important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or questions you may have leading up to the surgery. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions, such as proper wound care and physical therapy, is crucial for a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for thoracic surgery include those with conditions such as:

  • Lung cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Benign tumors or cysts in the chest
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome
  • Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
  • Pleural effusion (build-up of fluid in the chest)
  • Thoracic aortic aneurysm
  • Tracheal stenosis (narrowing of the windpipe)
  • Mediastinal tumors
  • Hiatal hernia

These patients may benefit from thoracic surgery to remove tumors, repair damaged tissues, improve lung function, relieve symptoms, or prevent complications. It is important for patients to consult with a thoracic surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before thoracic surgery:

  1. Patient is evaluated by a thoracic surgeon to determine the need for surgery.
  2. Pre-operative tests and imaging studies are conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and the extent of the condition requiring surgery.
  3. The patient may undergo pre-operative counseling and education to understand the procedure, potential risks, and post-operative care.
  4. The patient may be instructed to fast before surgery and to stop certain medications.
  5. On the day of surgery, the patient is admitted to the hospital and undergoes the procedure under general anesthesia.

After thoracic surgery:

  1. The patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit or recovery room immediately after surgery.
  2. Pain management medications are provided to help control discomfort.
  3. The patient may undergo physical therapy to aid in recovery and prevent complications such as pneumonia or blood clots.
  4. The patient is gradually weaned off of mechanical ventilation and may begin to eat and drink.
  5. The patient is discharged from the hospital once stable, with instructions for follow-up care and rehabilitation.
  6. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and benefits of thoracic surgery for my specific condition?
  2. How experienced is the surgical team in performing thoracic surgeries?
  3. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for patients with similar conditions?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after thoracic surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with surgery?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  7. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  8. What are the potential long-term effects or complications of thoracic surgery?
  9. Will I need any additional follow-up care or monitoring after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after thoracic surgery?

Reference

Authors: Badhwar V, Rankin JS, Jacobs JP, Shahian DM, Habib RH, D’Agostino RS, Thourani VH, Suri RM, Prager RL, Edwards FH. Journal: Ann Thorac Surg. 2016 Jul;102(1):7-13. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2016.05.009. Epub 2016 Jun 2. PMID: 27262913