Name of the Procedure:

Unlisted Procedure, Cardiac Surgery (also known as unspecified cardiac surgery, custom cardiac operation)

Summary

This is a type of cardiac surgery that doesn't fall into the predefined categories of heart procedures. It is customized to meet the specific needs of a patient's heart condition that requires a novel or less common surgical approach.

Purpose

The purpose of an unlisted cardiac procedure is to address unique or complex heart conditions that necessitate a customized surgical approach. The goal is to improve heart function, relieve symptoms, and enhance the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Complex congenital heart defects
• Rare cardiovascular diseases
• Specific patient anatomy that requires a customized surgical approach
• Conditions not fully addressed by standard cardiac surgeries

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before surgery
• Adjustments in medication as advised by the healthcare provider
• Diagnostic tests such as echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, chest X-ray, or blood tests
• Pre-surgical consultations with cardiologists and surgeons

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. A surgical incision is made in the chest to access the heart.
3. Depending on the specific case, the heart is either stopped using cardiopulmonary bypass or kept beating with support.
4. The surgeon performs the necessary custom repairs or modifications.
5. The incision is closed and the patient is moved to the recovery area.
   • Tools & Equipment: Cardiopulmonary bypass machine, monitoring equipment, specially designed surgical instruments.
   • Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.

Duration

The duration of an unlisted cardiac procedure can vary widely but generally ranges from 3 to 6 hours.

Setting

Typically performed in a hospital setting, specifically in an operating room with specialized equipment for cardiac surgery.

Personnel

• Cardiothoracic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Perfusionist (if cardiopulmonary bypass is used)
• Cardiology specialist (for intraoperative support)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Heart attack or stroke
• Arrhythmias
• Need for reoperation
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief of specific heart condition symptoms
• Improved heart function
• Prevention of future cardiovascular complications
• Enhanced quality of life

Recovery

• Initial recovery in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for close monitoring
• Transition to a regular hospital room for further recovery
• Pain management with medications
• Gradual increase in physical activity
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring recovery
• Full recovery may take several weeks to months

Alternatives

• Standard cardiac surgeries (e.g., coronary artery bypass grafting, valve replacement)
• Non-surgical interventions (e.g., medications, catheter-based procedures)
• Alternative therapies depend on the specific heart condition being treated and patient suitability.

Patient Experience

• Expectation of feeling groggy or disoriented immediately after surgery due to anesthesia.
• Postoperative pain managed with medications.
• Restricted physical activity during initial recovery period.
• Plan for gradual resumption of normal activities as guided by healthcare providers.
• Emotional support may be beneficial during recovery for coping and motivation.