Admission to the hospital is usually scheduled for two or three days before the date of the operation to allow time for pre–operative testing, control of diabetes etc. Instructions for clearing the lungs of mucus secretions, coughing techniques and deep breathing exercises will be given. During this time, you will become acquainted with the team of surgeons, anesthetists, nurses and therapists who provide your care during and after the operation.
Are people frightened or nervous before the operation?
It is normal to feel nervous before important events. Nervousness or anxiety before an operation is a normal reaction just as athletes often are nervous before important games. Nervousness often is lessened by understanding the need for the operation, meeting members of the professional team and asking questions. Sometimes mild sedatives may be needed.
How long do these operations usually last?
Generally, this operation takes from three to six hours. However, the length of the operation depends on its complexity. Because of this, each operation is different and the duration is difficult to predict accurately.
What happens immediately after the operation?
Once the operation is over, patients are cared for in an intensive care unit. It is here that patients regain consciousness after the anesthesia wears off. Tubes and wires are attached to parts of the body to provide for safe and efficient recovery. You may spend a few days in the intensive care unit, although everyone recovers from surgery at a different pace. During this time one visitor will be allowed in the morning and again in the evening to see you. Make sure that atleast one of your attendants will be available in the morning outside the intensive care unit area. After doing rounds in the morning, the doctor will discuss with them about your progress.
Where will the incisions be made?
The incision used to reach the heart is made along the midline of the chest trough the breastbone. There usually will be one or more incisions in the leg where the vein is removed and sometimes in the forearm where the radial artery is removed for use for the bypass.
What can be done to help in recovery?
Deep breathing exercises and coughing are important ways to help recover quickly. Coughing reduces the chances of pneumonia and fever and will not disturb the incision or bypass grafts. The nurse or therapist will clap her/his hands against the side of your chest, causing internal vibrations that loosen the secretions in the lungs. This makes it easier to cough them up. Most patients, fearing pain or discomfort, do not like to cough after an operation. But it is essential that it be done. Some patients find it easier to cough if the chest is supported by a pillow. You may be asked to inhale or exhale into a spirometer, a device to expand and exercise your lungs.
What activity levels are prescribed?
The activity level is prescribed individually for each patient. At first, it may be sitting in a chair or walking around the room. Later, there will be short walks in the hall and eventually, stair climbing and brisk, longer walks in preparation to go home. Sponge baths are given right away and it is only a few days before a shower and shampoo are permissible.
Know Your Heart
