Open Heart Surgery

Question 1

What happens to the heart during an open heart surgery?

Answer 1

Heart remains beating throughout surgery
(Avoids need for bypass machine)

Question 2

What must a surgeon do during open heart surgery?

Answer 2

Must use a stabilization system to steady the portion of the heart where the suturing takes place.

Question 3

What are the problems with open heart surgery?

Answer 3

• Poorer graft patency
• Higher incidence of revascularisation
• Major adverse cerebrovascular events

Question 4

What are the proposed benefits of open heart surgery?

Answer 4

• Less blood trauma
• Decreased risk of adverse events (stroke, etc.)
• A more rapid return to normal activities