Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery

Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery is a specialized branch of surgical medicine that focuses on treating conditions affecting the heart, chest, and blood vessels. These highly skilled surgeons are trained to perform intricate procedures that range from coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to repairing complex congenital heart defects. By employing advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art technology, these specialists play a pivotal role in managing a wide spectrum of cardiovascular and thoracic disorders.

Diseases treated by Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons

The Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery department (often abbreviated as CTVS or CV Surgery) specializes in the surgical treatment of conditions affecting the heart, thoracic (chest) region, and the vascular system. Here are some of the diseases and conditions that this department commonly treats:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This is a condition where the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle with oxygen and nutrients (coronary arteries) become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. Cardiothoracic surgeons may perform procedures like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to bypass blocked arteries.
• Valvular Heart Disease: This includes conditions where the heart valves (such as the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves) are damaged or malfunctioning. Surgical interventions can involve valve repair or replacement.
• Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections: This involves the enlargement or tearing of the aorta, the main blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart. Surgery may be required to repair or replace the affected portion.
• Congenital Heart Defects: These are structural abnormalities present at birth that affect the heart's structure or function. Cardiothoracic surgeons perform corrective procedures on both children and adults with congenital heart conditions.
• Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections: This involves aneurysms or tears in the aorta within the chest (thoracic aorta). Surgical intervention may be needed to repair or replace the affected area.
• Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): This is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that can lead to heart-related complications. Surgical procedures like maze surgery or minimally invasive ablation may be performed to treat AFib.
• Heart Failure: In advanced cases of heart failure, heart transplants or mechanical circulatory support devices (such as ventricular assist devices or artificial hearts) may be considered.
• Lung Cancer: While primarily managed by thoracic surgeons, cardiothoracic surgeons may be involved in lung cancer cases that require combined procedures involving both the heart and lungs.
• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): This involves the narrowing or blockage of arteries outside the heart, typically in the limbs. Cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons may perform procedures like angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery to improve blood flow.
• Carotid Artery Disease: This condition involves the narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, which can increase the risk of stroke. Surgeons may perform carotid endarterectomy or stenting to restore proper blood flow.
• Varicose Veins and Venous Disease: While primarily managed by vascular surgeons, cardiothoracic surgeons may be involved in more complex cases of venous disease that require specialized intervention.

Key Procedures

• Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): This is a common surgical procedure used to treat coronary artery disease. It involves bypassing narrowed or blocked coronary arteries with grafts (vessels taken from other parts of the body) to restore blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Valve Repair or Replacement: This procedure addresses conditions where heart valves (such as the aortic or mitral valves) are diseased or damaged. Surgeons may repair the valve to improve function or replace it with an artificial valve.
• Congenital Heart Surgery: These specialized surgeries are performed on infants, children, and adults with congenital heart defects. They can range from relatively simple repairs to complex procedures that require intricate anatomical corrections.
• Aortic Surgery: This encompasses procedures involving the aorta, the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It may include repairs for aortic aneurysms or dissections.
• Arrhythmia Surgery: In certain cases, surgery may be used to treat arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) that do not respond to other interventions. This can include procedures like the Maze procedure to restore normal heart rhythm.
• Thoracic Surgery: This addresses conditions affecting the lungs, esophagus, and chest wall. It includes procedures for lung cancer, thoracic trauma, and other disorders.
• Vascular Surgery: This focuses on treating diseases of the blood vessels, including the arteries and veins. Procedures may involve removing blockages, repairing aneurysms, or performing bypass grafts to improve blood flow.

Key Benefits of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery Department

The Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery department offers several advantages in the treatment of various cardiac, thoracic, and vascular conditions. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Specialized Expertise: Surgeons in this department have specialized training and expertise in performing complex surgical procedures related to the heart, chest, and vascular system. They are highly skilled in handling intricate anatomical structures.
• Life-Saving Interventions: Many of the conditions treated by this department, such as coronary artery disease, aortic aneurysms, and valvular heart disease, can be life-threatening without timely surgical intervention.
• Innovative Techniques: Surgeons in this field often utilize cutting-edge surgical techniques, including minimally invasive approaches, robot-assisted surgery, and advanced imaging technologies, which can lead to faster recovery times and reduced post-operative complications.
• Multidisciplinary Care: The department often works closely with other specialties, including cardiology, radiology, anesthesiology, and intensive care, to provide comprehensive and coordinated care for patients. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive the best possible treatment.
• Treatment of Complex Conditions: The Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery department is equipped to handle a wide range of complex conditions, including congenital heart defects, advanced heart failure, complex aortic diseases, and thoracic malignancies.
• Emergency Care: In critical situations, such as acute aortic dissections or severe heart attacks, cardiothoracic surgeons are equipped to perform emergent surgeries that can be life-saving.
• Treatment of Vascular Conditions: In addition to cardiac and thoracic surgeries, this department also addresses vascular diseases, including peripheral arterial disease, carotid artery disease, and venous disorders. This comprehensive approach covers a broad spectrum of cardiovascular health.
• Quality of Life Improvement: Many procedures performed by this department, such as valve repair or replacement, coronary artery bypass grafting, and aortic aneurysm repair, can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and overall well-being.

Call 011-42888888 to book an appointment with a specialist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.