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Open Heart Surgery: A Life-Saving Path to Cardiac Health
- Healthcare Diplomacy
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
Introduction: Opening the Way to a Stronger Heart
The heart is the engine of life. When it struggles, the entire body feels the strain. In cases where medications or minimally invasive techniques are not enough, open heart surgery becomes a critical and often life-saving intervention. Thanks to advanced medical technologies and skilled surgical teams, today’s open heart procedures are safer and more effective than ever.
What Is Open Heart Surgery?
Open heart surgery refers to any surgical procedure in which the chest is opened to access the heart directly. It allows surgeons to repair or replace damaged areas of the heart and major blood vessels. Common procedures include:
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
Valve repair or replacement
Repair of congenital heart defects
Removal of heart tumors
When Is It Necessary?
This type of surgery is usually recommended in severe or life-threatening conditions, including:
Significant coronary artery disease
Heart valve disorders (stenosis or insufficiency)
Aortic aneurysms
Complex congenital heart defects
Life-disrupting rhythm disorders
The Surgical Process
1. Preoperative Preparation:Includes detailed blood tests, imaging (angiography, echocardiogram, MRI), and anesthetic evaluation.
2. The Surgery:Performed under general anesthesia. The heart-lung machine is used while the heart is temporarily stopped, allowing the surgical team to perform the necessary repairs.
3. Duration:Depending on the complexity, the operation may last between 3 to 6 hours.
4. Post-Op Monitoring:The first 24–48 hours are spent in the intensive care unit with respiratory support, rhythm monitoring, and pain management.
Risks and Complications
Although highly successful today, open heart surgery still carries potential risks:
Infection
Bleeding
Arrhythmias
Pulmonary complications
Stroke
Kidney dysfunction
Our team minimizes these risks using high-precision techniques, advanced technology, and individualized care plans.
Recovery Process
Most patients return to daily life within 6 to 12 weeks. Key aspects of recovery include:
Light walking and supervised exercise
Healthy nutrition and stress reduction
Regular follow-up visits
Cardiac rehabilitation when needed
Long-Term Heart Health
Open heart surgery is not an ending—it’s a new beginning. To maintain heart health:
Eat a heart-friendly diet (low salt, high in fiber and omega-3s)
Exercise regularly
Manage stress and sleep well
Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Excellence in Cardiac Surgery at Acıbadem
At Acıbadem Healthcare Group, we offer internationally accredited, high-standard cardiac surgical care. Our experienced cardiovascular surgeons, advanced operating theaters, and multidisciplinary approach enable excellent outcomes and safer recoveries.
"Renew Your Life with Every Heartbeat"
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