Most patients have good results with open heart surgery in its many forms, but, nonetheless, it’s still important to keep an eye for the many risks that may crop up in its wake.
Chest Wound Risks
During open heart surgery, an incision up to ten inches long is made in the chest. Although it’s stitched back up with utmost care, there is still a chance of infection. Keep a careful eye on your incision. Look for any changes in size, color, or temperature. It may feel hard around the wound, you may develop a fever, or it may exude a greenish pus. If it’s hot to the touch or has a funny smell to it, contact your health care provider immediately. Although the chances are greater in overweight or diabetic patients, it is equally important for all patients who have undergone open heart surgery to pay attention.
Internal Risks
Although surgery on the heart is ultimately to help, there is always the chance of harm occurring instead. There is a sudden change in blood flow, not to mention the use of a heart-lung bypass machine, which basically forgoes the heart and sends blood and oxygen to the brain and body itself while the heart is being operated on. This machine increases the already-present risk of stroke or memory problems. Other potential risks following open heart surgery include blood clots, chest pain, irregular heart beats, blood loss, or difficulty breathing. Some patients are actually at an increased risk of a heart attack and, as previously mentioned, stroke, along with kidney or lung failure.
Surgical Risks
Perhaps the biggest risk is that the surgery itself won’t work. This is especially dangerous for heart transplants, in which the patient’s heart is removed and immediately replaced with a donated heart. Not every body takes to the new organ being put into it, even though it’s healthier and less diseased than the original. There is, ultimately, a chance of death during heart surgery. However, this is much more common in people who are extremely sick before the procedure. It’s also something that, if you’re very worried, you should discuss with your doctor. However, in many cases, deciding to forgo heart surgery can be a fatal choice itself. The more immediate the emergency, the greater the chances of more serious risks.
