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Can You Increase The Survival Rate In Heart Surgery Across All The Age Groups?

Even with the advancement in the medical field, it is not possible to increase the survival rate in heart surgery across all the age groups. For instance, doctors used to send away 70 plus-year-old patients suffering from heart problems or leaky valves by just providing a few medicines that helped in easing the pain. Many doctors in the recent years have come across several patients, especially the senior citizens, who are mentally sharp and are in a position to take the decision to undergo the heart surgery.

The Fastest Growing Population

The 70 plus category is the fastest growing population out of which 40% are suffering from various heart diseases. According to the guidelines issued by several heart associations, the age of the patient is not part of the consideration for performing open heart surgery. It is now dependent on the patient, the surgeon, and the insurer.

The Survival Rate

According to an investigation carried out by Dr. Paul A. Kurlansky, the average lifespan of the patients who underwent heart surgery increased by six years. It is the same as that of those who have no problems related to the heart. In addition to it, 90% of the patients undergoing heart surgery survived successfully and went on to lead a healthy life even after leaving the hospital. Patients also reported that there was an increase in the quality of life and were similar to that of those in the same age group and did not undergo bypass surgery.

In another study by Donald S. Likosky, the only way to cure people suffering from heart valve problems is by replacing the valves through the surgery. Without the treatment, the condition kills the patients in two or three years. After performing a valve surgery, the survival rate of the patient increases by six years or even more depending on the lifestyle changes. However, considering the age group of 70 plus, doctors opt for the biological valve, which has a maximum lifespan of 15 years. The median survival rate stands at seven years, considering the patient’s age and overall health. The survival rate is similar to that of those belonging to the same population of that age without any surgery. In a few circumstances, patients who underwent surgery outlived their counterparts.

Is Open Heart Surgery The Answer To Heart Problems?

Although the risks involved in open heart problems are high, advancement in the medical field is providing the opportunity for doctors to decrease the mortality rate. Open heart surgery is the only way that helps an individual to cope with coronary heart diseases, bypass, grafting, and heart valve diseases. The operation is also helpful in:

Fixing abnormal regions
Planting medical devices
Replacing damaged heart

Risks Involved In Open Heart Surgery

The following are the risks involved in open heart surgery:

Memory loss
Heart attack
Low fever
Chest pain
Difficulty in breathing
Pneumonia
Improper heartbeats
Blood clots
Loss of blood
Infections

Due to these risks, the surgeon places the patient in ICU and for a few days or weeks in the hospital to monitor the recovery. Depending on the improvement shown by the patient, the doctor provides the necessary instructions before discharging the patient.

Post-Operation Therapy

To lead a healthy life after heart surgery, making lifestyle changes is essential. It includes following a special diet as prescribed by the dietician and including exercises taught by members belonging to the rehabilitation team.

Conclusion

Death from a heart surgery occurs on rare occasions. However, it is the only solution to attend to different diseases that the heart acquires. Treating them is essential to prolong the lifespan. The advancement in the medical field reduces the mortality rate from heart surgery. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as changing the diet and adding exercises post-operation also increase the lifespan.

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Can You Increase The Survival Rate In Heart Surgery Across All The Age Groups?