How to Avoid Complications From Open Heart Surgery

Every surgery has its share of complications and risks. If you're having open-heart surgery, the risk of complications will differ depending on your existing health condition. Here are some ways to avoid complications from open-heart surgery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Talk to your doctor about the possible complications of the surgery before the operation. Minor complications could include nausea, vomiting, minor infections, bruises, skin numbness and other skin-related problems. Major complications could include stroke, heart attack, graft failure, serious bleeding or organ failure.
2. Talk to your doctor about any allergies you have, especially if you are allergic to any kind of medicine. That way your doctor can prescribe medicines that will suit you.
3. Stop smoking before the surgery. Smoking increases the risk of complications from surgery. Also avoid alcohol intake.
4. Ask your doctor if you can donate your own blood three or four weeks prior to the surgery to be used for blood transfusion during your operation. Blood transfusion is a normal process during this type of surgery because of heavy bleeding. Using your own blood may help prevent potential complications such as abnormal blood clotting and kidney failure.
5. Contact a dermatologist or your physician if you tend to get keloids (excessively thick scarring). Normally, scars from open-heart surgery heal without any problem, but consulting a dermatologist before your surgery may help avoid any abnormal scarring.
6. Consult your heart surgeon if atrial fibrillation (an abnormal heart rhythm) occurs. Do not delay in seeing a doctor if you feel a pain in chest or an increased heart rate.
7. Take special care if you are diabetic, which puts you at greater risk of complications. Communicate with your health providers and watch for symptoms of diabetes, such as weakness, shortness of breath and increased appetite.
8. Make any necessary changes in your lifestyle (such as improved eating and exercising habits) to minimize your risk of complications.
9. Join a cardiac rehabilitation program, which will provide a supportive environment and give you proper training for physical and emotional stability as you recover from your surgery.