Cardiothoracic Surgery

Before undergoing cardiothoracic surgery, patients are thoroughly evaluated through a series of diagnostic tests to determine the exact nature and severity of the condition. These tests may include ECG, echocardiography, CT scans, pulmonary function tests, and blood investigations. This comprehensive assessment helps the surgical team plan the most appropriate approach for the procedure. Patients are advised to follow preoperative instructions carefully, including fasting for several hours before surgery and adjusting medications under medical supervision. Lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, controlling blood sugar levels, and maintaining a healthy diet are strongly recommended to reduce surgical risks. Emotional and psychological preparation is also important, as understanding the procedure helps reduce anxiety and improves overall readiness for surgery.

On the day of the surgery, the patient is taken to the operating room and administered general anesthesia, ensuring they remain unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure. A breathing tube is inserted, and the patient is connected to a ventilator to support breathing during surgery. Depending on the type of procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the chest to access the heart or lungs. In cardiac surgeries, a heart-lung machine may be used to maintain blood circulation while the heart is temporarily stopped. In thoracic procedures involving the lungs, specialized techniques are used to isolate and operate on the affected area. The surgeon then performs the required procedure, such as repairing heart valves, removing lung tumors, or bypassing blocked arteries. Once the surgery is completed, the incision is closed, and the patient is moved to the intensive care unit for close monitoring.

After cardiothoracic surgery, patients are closely monitored in the ICU for the first 24 to 48 hours. Vital signs, oxygen levels, and heart or lung function are continuously observed to ensure stability. Patients may initially require ventilator support until they regain the ability to breathe independently. Pain management, infection prevention, and respiratory care are essential components of post-operative recovery. Patients are encouraged to perform breathing exercises and gradually increase physical activity to prevent complications such as lung infections or blood clots. The hospital stay typically ranges from 5 to 10 days, depending on the type of surgery and recovery progress.