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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
As human beings, it is normal for us to be concerned and apprehensive anytime we require health care services. It is our health and quality of life that is most important to all of us. At Fort Wayne CardioVascular Surgeons, P.C., the health and well-being of our patients remains our most important priority. If your health or medical history requires our services, then we have a responsibility to provide you and your family members with specific information about your medical condition and treatment options. It would be nearly impossible to provide you with the answer to every question on our website and therefore, we have attempted to answer several common questions that other patients, like you, have asked. We hope this information is valuable and will help lessen any anxiety that you might be feeling. This is “Our Commitment To You” and one that we take very seriously. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to ask us. That is why we are here! Feel free to call us at (260) 483-6448, or use the Contact Us link and email your questions. We will respond to your questions on the same day or following day.
Q: What is the risk of open heart surgery? A: No surgery is risk-free. The risk of serious complications such as stroke and major organ failure, and the mortality rate for the operation depends to a great extent on the condition of the patient and the amount of damage which has already occurred to the heart. Health conditions such as diabetes, kidney failure, and emphysema as well as smoking add to the overall risk of heart surgery. Your surgeon will discuss your particular risks with you prior to the operation.
Q: How long will I be in the hospital after heart surgery? A: Most patients are ready to go home after surgery in 3 to 5 days, but this depends on the individual patient and the post-operative course.
Q: What are my restrictions when I go home after heart surgery? A: In general, we ask patients not to drive a car for the first 3 weeks after surgery. Walking is good for you. You may climb stairs but it is a good idea to have someone with you the first few times you do this. The surgical wounds are best left open to the air and cleaned gently with soap and water twice a day. Your specific instructions will be discussed with you before you leave the hospital and we are always available to answer any questions you may have by telephone.
Q: When can I return to work after heart surgery? A: This depends on what type of work you do. We advise patients with jobs involving heavy lifting to wait 2 to 3 months after surgery, to allow the breast bone to heal solidly. Patients with jobs that do not require heavy lifting usually return to work sooner. Your surgeon will see you in the office after you leave the hospital and advise you on your activity and return to work plans.
Q: How will my employer be notified of my absence from work? A: Most employers have specific forms that need to be filled out by the employee and then by the doctor. Please bring these forms with you when you come to the office or the hospital prior to the surgery.
Q: Do I have a choice of which surgeon will be doing my surgery? A: Yes. As much as possible we try to allow the patient to choose which surgeon he or she wants. We also try to make sure that the surgeon who talks to you about the operation before surgery will also be doing the procedure and will also be the surgeon who follows you in the post-operative period in the hospital and in the office until you are fully recovered.
Contact Us
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Questions or problems regarding this web site should be directed to [seekinsb@FWCVS.com].
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