Cardiology surgery is a medical specialty that focuses on the surgical treatment of heart and blood vessel conditions. Cardiac surgeons perform a variety of procedures to repair or replace damaged or diseased heart valves, coronary arteries, and other heart structures.
Some common cardiology surgeries include:
- Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG): a procedure to bypass blocked or narrowed coronary arteries to improve blood flow to the heart.
- Heart valve repair or replacement: a procedure to repair or replace a damaged or diseased heart valve to improve its function.
- Atrial septal defect (ASD) or ventricular septal defect (VSD) closure: a procedure to close holes in the heart.
- Aortic aneurysm repair: a procedure to repair a bulging or weakened area in the aorta, the main blood vessel carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
Cardiology surgery is typically performed using general anaesthesia, and the type of procedure will depend on the individual patient’s needs and the extent of their heart condition.
After surgery, patients typically require a period of recovery and rehabilitation to allow their heart and body to heal. The length and specifics of the recovery period will depend on the type of procedure and the individual patient’s health.
Cardiology surgery can be a life-saving procedure for individuals with heart conditions, but as with any surgery, it carries risks and potential complications. Patients should discuss their options with their cardiologist and cardiac surgeon to determine the best course of treatment for their specific needs.
