Preparations for minimally invasive cardiac surgery

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery helps make small incisions in the right side of your chest to reach the heart between the ribs, rather than cutting through the breastbone as in open-heart surgery.Minimally invasive cardiac surgery can be used to treat a wide range of heart issues. This type of surgery may result in less discomfort and a faster recovery for many patients than open-heart surgery.

How to prepare

Your doctor and treatment team will explain what to expect before, during, and after minimally invasive cardiac surgery, as well as the potential risks involved.

Concerns you have about your surgery will be discussed with your doctor and team. Prior to your surgery, your doctor or another member of your treatment team may share advance directives or other information with you.

In the areas of your body where the treatment will take place, you may need to shave your hair. To lessen the chance of infection, your skin may be cleansed with a specific soap.

Before you go to the hospital for your minimally invasive cardiac surgery, talk to your family about how long you’ll be there and what kind of care you’ll need when you return home. When you return home, your doctor and treatment team will give you guidelines to follow through your recovery.

Also see: Pediatric Heart Surgeon in Chandigarh

Medication and food

Ask your doctor when you can start taking your normal meds and whether you can do so before minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

When should you stop eating and drinking the night before your surgery?

Your medical team may advise you to bring the following items to the hospital:

A list of your prescription medications
Dentures, hearing aids, or eyeglasses
Brushes, combs, shaving equipment, and toothbrushes are examples of personal care goods.
Clothing that is loose-fitting and comfy
A copy of your advance directive
Items like a small music player or books that might help you relax

Avoid wearing the following items during surgery