Specialised Care for Complex Heart Disorders
Delivering life-saving open heart surgeries through expert surgeons, advanced technology, and compassionate cardiac care.
Open Heart Surgeries: An Overview
Open heart surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures performed by opening the chest to access the heart and major blood vessels. These surgeries are used to treat complex heart conditions that cannot be managed with medications or minimally invasive procedures.
Common open heart surgeries include coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repair or replacement, and correction of congenital heart defects. At St. Thomas Heart Centre, open heart surgeries are performed by experienced cardiac surgeons using advanced operating theatres and critical care support.
When Open Heart Surgery Becomes Essential?
- Severe Coronary Artery Disease: Multiple or critical blockages requiring bypass surgery to restore blood flow.
- Advanced Heart Valve Disease:: Damaged or leaking valves needing surgical repair or replacement.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Structural heart abnormalities present from birth requiring surgical correction.
- Aortic Aneurysm or Dissection: Life-threatening enlargement or tear of the aorta requiring immediate intervention.
- Failed Previous Interventions: Conditions not adequately treated by medications or catheter-based procedures.
- Failed Previous Heart Surgery: When prior surgeries or mechanical assist devices (LVADs) can no longer support heart function.
Why Choose St. Thomas Heart Centre for Heart Transplants
At St. Thomas Heart Centre, every member of our team plays a vital role in delivering exceptional cardiac care. Our highly skilled technicians, though often working behind the scenes, are among the strongest pillars of our heart transplant program. Their expertise, precision, and commitment make a significant contribution to our hospital’s success and the outcomes we achieve for our patients.
Driven by excellence, compassion, and advanced medical capabilities, we strive to be one of the leading heart transplant centres in the region and the world providing safe, reliable, and life-changing treatment for every patient who walks through our doors.
01. Experienced Cardiac Surgeons:
Highly skilled surgeons with extensive expertise in complex open heart procedures.
02. Advanced Operating Theatres:
Modern theatres equipped with heart-lung machines and advanced monitoring systems.
03. Comprehensive Critical Care:
Dedicated cardiac intensive care units for post-operative monitoring and recovery.
04. Structured Rehabilitation & Follow-Up:
Guided recovery programs, medication management, and long-term heart health support.
05. Multidisciplinary Heart Team:
Surgeons, anesthetists, perfusionists, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists working together.
Why Timely Open Heart Surgery Matters?
Delaying necessary heart surgery can lead to rapid disease progression and serious complications.
- Worsening chest pain and breathlessness
- Increased risk of heart attack or heart failure
- Progressive damage to heart muscle or valves
- Reduced blood supply to vital organs
- Sudden life-threatening cardiac events
- Lower success rates with delayed intervention
- Timely open heart surgery can be life-saving and significantly improve long-term outcomes.
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Your Step-by-Step Open Heart Surgery Experience
Our open heart surgery pathway is designed to ensure safety, clarity, and compassionate care throughout the treatment journey.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Detailed cardiac tests, imaging studies, blood work, and risk assessment.
Surgical Planning
Individualised procedure planning by the heart team based on patient condition.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Medication review, lifestyle guidance, and counselling for patients and families
Open Heart Surgery
Performed under general anaesthesia using advanced surgical and life-support systems.
Post-Surgical Monitoring
Intensive care observation for heart function, breathing, and overall stability.
Recovery & Long-Term Follow-Up
Step-down care, rehabilitation, lifestyle advice, and regular follow-up visits.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1.How long does open heart surgery take?
The surgery typically takes 4–6 hours. Duration depends on the complexity of the procedure.
2. Is open heart surgery safe?
Yes, advances in surgical techniques and critical care have made outcomes highly successful.
3. How long is hospital stay after open heart surgery?
Most patients stay in the hospital for 7–10 days. Your care team will guide discharge based on recovery.
4. How long does full recovery take?
Complete recovery may take several weeks to a few months, depending on overall health.
5. Will lifestyle changes be required after surgery?
Yes, healthy habits and prescribed medications are essential for long-term success.
6. Can normal life be resumed after open heart surgery?
Most patients gradually return to daily activities. Many experience improved heart function and energy.