Introduction – What Is Cardiac Surgery?
Cardiac (heart) surgery is a treatment used when medications and lifestyle changes alone are not enough to manage heart problems. It involves repairing or replacing parts of the heart to restore normal blood flow, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.
In India, with growing awareness and advanced hospitals like Marengo CIMS, more patients are choosing cardiac surgery early—before complications arise.
Common Reasons for Heart Surgery:
Blocked arteries (coronary artery disease)
Valve problems (leaking or narrowing)
Congenital (from birth) heart defects
Aneurysms (bulging in a blood vessel)
Heart failure not managed by medicines
Types of Heart Surgeries We Perform
At our centre under Dr. Dhiren Shah’s expert care, we offer multiple types of cardiac surgeries (not limited to) :
1. CABG (Bypass Surgery)
Bypasses blocked arteries using a blood vessel from your leg or chest
Restores blood supply to heart muscles
Best for patients with multiple blockages
2. Valve Repair/Replacement
For valves that are leaking (regurgitation) or narrowed (stenosis)
Mechanical or tissue valves may be used
Sometimes done via minimally invasive surgery
3. Aortic Surgery (e.g., Bentall Procedure)
For conditions like aneurysms or dissections (tears) in the main artery
Requires precision and urgent action in emergencies
4. Heart Transplant
For patients with end-stage heart failure
Very few centres in India offer this—CIMS is among them
5. MICS (Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery)
Done through small cuts without opening the whole chest
Faster recovery, less pain, smaller scars
Preparing for Surgery
Before Surgery:
Medical Tests
Blood tests, ECG, Chest X-ray, Echo, Angiography
These help plan your surgery safely
Medications
Some may need to be stopped (like blood thinners)
You will be guided on which medicines to continue
Diet & Lifestyle
Eat light before surgery
Avoid smoking or alcohol
Manage stress – yoga and meditation help
Counselling & Consent
You and your family will be explained the procedure in detail
Risks and outcomes will be honestly discussed
Consent forms are signed after all doubts are cleared
The Day of Surgery
What Happens in the Operation Theatre:
You will be given anesthesia (sleep-inducing medicine)
Surgery may take 3–6 hours depending on complexity
Your chest may be opened partially or fully
A heart-lung machine is used to circulate blood during surgery
After surgery, you will be shifted to the ICU for monitoring
Recovery After Surgery
In the Hospital:
ICU stay: 1–2 days
Ward stay: 5–7 days
Pain is managed with medicines
Tubes and wires (drains, oxygen, pacing wires) are removed gradually
Physiotherapy starts early to help you walk and breathe better
At Home:
Follow-up visits are crucial
You may return to routine in 6–8 weeks
Avoid heavy lifting for 2–3 months
Take your medicines on time
Monitor BP, sugar, and weight regularly
Inform doctor immediately if there’s fever, chest pain, or breathlessness
Life After Heart Surgery – A New Chapter
With modern techniques and timely care, most patients live a healthy and active life after heart surgery. Some tips for a heart-healthy future:
Eat home-cooked food with less oil and salt
Walk at least 30 minutes daily
Avoid stress – focus on peace and purpose
Quit smoking or tobacco use
Keep regular follow-ups with Dr. Dhiren Shah
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will I have a scar?
Yes, but it fades over time. In MICS surgery, scars are much smaller.
2. Will I be able to drive or travel?
Yes, after 6–8 weeks and only once Dr. Shah clears you.
3. Can I go back to work?
Yes! Many patients return to work in 1–2 months depending on their job type.
4. Do I need surgery again?
Rarely. With proper care and follow-ups, most surgeries last a lifetime.
About Dr. Dhiren Shah
Dr. Dhiren Shah is a renowned cardiac surgeon with thousands of successful operations. He leads a dedicated team at Marengo CIMS Hospital, known for complex heart transplants, minimally invasive surgeries, and emergency cardiac care.+91 9825575933
For Appointments:
📍 Marengo CIMS Hospital, Ahmedabad📞 +91 98255 75933🌐 www.cims.org
Imported from Dr. Dhiren Shah’s Education portal. For a personalised interpretation of this information, request an appointment with Dr. Dhiren Shah.
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