Cardiothoracic surgery is the branch of surgery that involves the treatment of organs inside the thorax, or chest. In countries like the United States and Australia, both cardiac surgery and thoracic surgery are grouped as cardiothoracic surgery. Medline Plus reports that thousands of people in the United States undergo heart surgery every day. Cardiothoracic surgery is performed for the treatment of disorders of heart and lungs. Several complications can result from such surgery.
Bleeding
According to the Mayo Clinic, bleeding is one of the complications of cardiothoracic surgery. Bleeding during the surgical procedure is a normal process in all almost all types of cardiac surgeries. However, excessive bleeding can be a life-threatening complication and must be reported to the surgeon as soon as possible. Blood transfusion may be required to restore the normal blood volume in the body. Sometimes a follow-up surgery may be needed in such a case for repairing the damaged blood vessels.
Lung Problems
The University of Maryland-Medical Center says that certain types of lung problems occur after a cardiothoracic surgery. The functions of lungs and heart are indirectly related to each other. After coronary bypass surgery, patients may experience pneumonia, accumulation of fluid and air in the lungs or chest area, and respiratory tract infections. Patients who are suffering from lung illness before heart surgery are more likely to develop such lung complications. Such complications must be reported to the physician immediately.
Heart Attacks
Heart attacks can occur after cardiac surgeries, according to the Mayo Clinic. Cardiac surgeries are often stressful for patients as the demand for oxygen and blood increases. Heart attack is a result of blood flow interruption. The chance of experiencing heart attacks increases in those who are suffering from high blood pressure, blocked blood vessels and heart muscle disorders. The affected patients need immediate medical attention to prevent any danger to their life.
Stroke
According to the Mayo Clinic, stroke can occur after cardiac surgery. Stroke is a disorder that causes sudden loss of consciousness due to rupturing or occlusion of a blood vessel, which affects brain functions. Stroke leads to lack of oxygen in the brain and ultimately results in speaking problems, paralysis and death.
Memory Loss
Memory loss may occur in patients after undergoing cardiac surgery, the Mayo Clinic says. Memory loss is often short term and normally goes away within six to 12 months. Such patients can benefit from rehabilitation therapies, which can help restore memory.
