Open-Heart Surgery: Risks, Procedure, and Preparation

The heart is the powerhouse of the body. It pumps blood and oxygen to the entire body so that the different parts and organs can work uninterruptedly. Your body cannot function without a properly functioning heart. That is why, if you develop heart-related ailments, surgery often becomes necessary.

When it comes to heart surgeries, open-heart surgery is a common procedure. The procedure includes cutting into your chest to repair the arteries, veins, or valves of your heart.

The open-heart surgery is usually done for two reasons – coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) or valve repair surgery. CABG is done when the heart arteries thicken and restrict the blood flow. The doctor, then, constructs a blood valve circumventing the blocked artery. Valve repair, on the other hand, is done if the valves of the heart are damaged and need repairing.

Other Reasons that Might Necessitate the Open-Heart Surgery Include the Following-

• To repair the damaged or defective areas of the heart
• To implant medical devices for smoother functioning of the heart
• For heart transplant treatments
• For treating congenital heart defects
• To repair aneurysms, etc.

Open-heart Surgery Risks

Common risks associated with open-heart surgeries are–

• Infections
• Allergic reactions to the administered anaesthesia
• Damage to the blood vessels surrounding the heart
• Irregular heartbeats
• Stroke, etc.

Open-heart Surgery Procedure

A long and complicated process, open-heart surgery involves making an incision on your chest to reach the breastbone. To access the underlying heart, the ribcage is broken apart and extended out. In the case of an on-pump surgery, the heart is connected to a heart-lung bypass machine. For off-pump surgeries, however, the procedure is performed on a beating heart.

The heart, arteries, veins, or valves are then repaired by the surgeon. In the event of on-pump surgery, blood flow to the heart is then restored. The heart begins to beat or is stimulated by a small shock.

Once the procedure is completed, the breastbone is closed and stitched up. The skin is also stitched back up and the process is complete.

Open-heart Surgery Preparation

Undergoing an open-heart surgery can prove to be emotionally challenging. However, thanks to the advancement of science, the process has been simplified and made more effective. Doctors, however, advise you to prepare for the surgery in advance. Here’s how you can do so –

- Understand the Details of the Procedure

Before undergoing the surgery, understand why it is needed, the type of surgery that would be performed and its process. Talk to your doctor and ask him/her to inform you about the complete process, possible complications, and what to expect after the treatment.

- Disclose your History to the Doctor

Full disclosure is important so that the doctor understands the potential risks and gives you precautionary measures. Tell your doctor about existing medications, diet, alcohol or smoking habits, etc.

- Follow Strict Hygiene

It is important to maintain personal hygiene before you are operated on. Keep yourself clean at all times, especially at the time of surgical prep for open-heart surgery. This would limit the chances of bacterial infections.

- Maintain your Diet

Eating right is important to avoid aggravating your heart condition. Talk to your doctor and understand what to eat and what to avoid. Maintain your diet both before and after the surgery.

- Follow the Medication

You might have to start some medications before the treatment to prepare your body. Some existing medications, like blood thinners, may need to be stopped. Understand the same and follow the prescription completely.

Health Insurance – A Provision to Battle the Medical Costs

Open-heart surgeries are not cheap. They incur considerable medical expenses, both before and after the treatment. A critical illness policy comes in handy in such times.

Critical illness insurance plans are fixed-benefit health plans that cover a list of specified critical illnesses. Most critical illness plans cover open-heart treatments and pay a lump sum benefit if you undergo surgery. You can use this lump sum benefit for the following –

• Pay for the open-heart surgery cost
• Avail of advanced treatments
• Meet other financial obligations that you might have, like a loan.

The critical illness policy, thus, gives you financial assistance so that you can get the surgery at the best medical facility, without worrying about the costs.

Niva Bupa CritiCare is one such critical illness plan that covers 20 major illnesses, including open-heart surgeries. You can opt for coverage up to Rs. 2 crore at affordable premiums and also include your spouse under the plan.

So, know what open-heart surgery is all about and the precautions that you should take. Invest in Niva Bupa CritiCare plan and take care of the financial implications of the surgery without breaking your bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you prepare for open-heart surgery?

Preparation involves medical tests, blood tests, and imaging studies. Patients must stop certain medications, quit smoking, and optimise their nutrition. Pre-operative education sessions help understand the procedure and recovery expectations.

2. Is open-heart surgery a risky procedure?

Modern open-heart surgery has significantly improved safety outcomes. Risk levels depend on patient age, health status, and specific cardiac condition. Most patients experience successful results when performed by experienced surgical teams.

3. What is the procedure for open-heart surgery?

The surgeon opens the chest through the breastbone and connects the patient to a heart-lung bypass machine. The heart is temporarily stopped for repair or replacement under direct visualisation. After completion, the heart is restarted and the chest is closed.

4. How will you prepare a patient for cardiac surgery?

Preparation includes medical examination, diagnostic testing, and medication adjustments. Educational sessions cover post-operative expectations and recovery goals. Nutritional counselling and psychological support help ensure optimal outcomes.

5. What is the biggest risk with open-heart surgery?

Major risks include stroke, infection, bleeding complications, and anesthesia reactions. Heart rhythm disturbances and kidney dysfunction can also occur. However, success rates exceed 95% for appropriate candidates with experienced teams.

6. Can you live a normal life after open-heart surgery?

Most patients return to normal activities within 6-12 weeks with improved quality of life. Regular exercise, heart-healthy diet, and medication compliance are essential. Many report feeling better than before surgery due to improved cardiac function.

7. What is the cost of open-heart surgery?

Costs range from ₹1.5 lakhs to ₹6 lakhs in India, varying by location and hospital. Most insurance plans cover medically necessary cardiac procedures.