Preparing For Heart Surgery
Here are the answers to a few of the most common questions you may have if your doctor has told you that you need heart surgery. Please feel free to ask us if you have additional questions.

What Is A Coronary Artery Bypass Or Open Heart Surgery?
Both are terms used to describe a type of surgery to either bypass blocked arteries or replace heart valves.

Will Anyone Talk To Me Or My Family
About What To Expect Before And After Surgery?
Yes. We believe a well-prepared patient and family help ease the recovery phase. Florida Heart Group nurses and cardiovascular surgery nurses will talk with you one-on-one to explain what to expect before and after surgery. The hospital also has educational TV channels for in-room teaching. Prior to your discharge, our nurses will arrange for you and your family to attend a cardiac rehabilitation class. Then the nurse will go over the information with you again and answer any questions prior to your leaving the hospital.

How Long Will I Be In The Hospital?
Although each person progresses at a different level, most patients stay in the hospital an average of 7 to 10 days.

How Uncomfortable Will I Be After Surgery?
Pain tolerance varies from person to person. The nurses in the critical care unit will provide pain medication to make you comfortable. Remember, changing positions, deep breathing and walking are very important to your healing and recovery.

When May I Return To Work?
Most people are able to resume minimal activities, including job-related activities, within 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of work.

Cardiovascular diagnostic and interventional procedures may cause unexpected problems, but serious and life-threatening problems are unusual. Your Florida Heart Group physician will discuss the potential risks and benefits in detail so you can both decide which treatment is best for you.