Cardiothoracic surgery involves the surgery of organs inside the thoracic cavity. These include the heart, lungs, esophagus and the bony structures in the chest. Further, certain diseases in these areas are diagnosed and treated as well. These are mainly lung cancer, coronary artery issues, hiatal hernia, swallowing complications and emphysema.
Cardiovascular or general thoracic surgeons specializing in these areas use modern technology to ensure the success of the surgical procedures. This is one of the most challenging areas of medical science and requires utmost precision. If your child is about to undergo such pediatric heart surgery in India, here’s what you should know beforehand.
What is Cardiothoracic Surgery?
The main procedures under this include valve replacement, wedge resection, lobectomy, coronary artery graft and pneumonectomy. Open chest operations, laparoscopic procedures and robotically assisted surgeries are also a part of cardiothoracic method. The other main areas are general thoracic surgery, heart and lung transplant and congenital cardiac surgery.
Types of Cardiothoracic Surgery
There are different kinds of treatments and managements under cardiothoracic surgery. They are performed by an expert multidisciplinary team under careful supervision. Have a detailed look at the common ones which your child might be required to undergo.
1. Stent Replacement
This is performed to open up a narrowed artery. A tiny drug-coated metal coil is placed to hold it open. Prior to this, the surgeon is likely to perform an angioplasty to remove the plaque.
2. Ablation
This is a procedure to eliminate or destroy targeted scar tissues that are sending wrong electrical signals causing an abnormal heart rhythm. Incorrect heart rates in the muscles are also fixed with this procedure.
3. Heart Transplant
In simple terms, the diseased heart is removed from the body and replaced with a fresh organ. This is one of the most effective treatments for heart failure in which the cardiovascular muscles fail to pump blood. This mainly happens due to high blood pressure, viral infections, drug abuse, heart attacks and anemia. Transplant is usually the last option which makes sure your little one is able to lead a fulfilling life.
Benefits of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Doctors at the top heart specialist hospital in Hyderabad perform this surgery to repair weakened heart muscles and complications, open up the arteries which are blocked by fatty buildups and ensure fewer heart rhythm problems. Additionally, it ensures lesser need for transfusion, reduced memory and thinking issues, lower death rates and minimal risk of stroke. In fact, you can also expect shorter hospital stay since it uses advanced medical techniques. Further, young patients are monitored in intensive care unit to reduce other complications.
Side Effects of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Just like any other surgery, cardiothoracic procedures also come with certain risks. This includes blood clots, reactions to anesthesia or mild infection at the site. However, these are not rare and can be effectively managed. In fact, the benefits most certainly overshadow the side effects of the surgery.
Help your child prepare for the operation by keeping your emotions under control, giving them a tour of the OT and helping them understand why it is required. Use simple and comforting words that can go a long way to increase the chances of a positive experience. The facilities for pediatric heart surgery in India are among the best in the world.