Cardiothoracic Anaesthesia

Overview

Cardiothoracic anaesthesia is a specialised branch of anaesthesia focused on patients undergoing complex surgical procedures involving the heart, lungs, and thoracic structures. These include coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve replacements, lung resections, and heart transplants. The role of the anaesthetist is crucial in maintaining the patient's physiological stability, ensuring pain management, and optimising recovery throughout the surgical process.

At Apollo Hospitals, we recognise the intricacies of cardiothoracic procedures and the critical importance of precision-driven anaesthesia care. With cutting-edge technology and a team of highly skilled anaesthetists, we are committed to delivering exceptional patient care, ensuring safety, comfort, and optimal surgical outcomes.

Our Expertise

Apollo Hospitals has been at the forefront of cardiothoracic anaesthesia, offering world-class healthcare with an unwavering commitment to patient well-being. Our anaesthesia specialists are extensively trained in handling high-risk and complex cardiothoracic cases, employing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in anaesthetic techniques.

Choosing Apollo Hospitals means:

• Access to highly skilled anaesthetists with expertise in cardiothoracic procedures
• A multidisciplinary approach, ensuring seamless coordination between anaesthetists, surgeons, and critical care teams
• Advanced perioperative monitoring and tailored anaesthesia plans for each patient
• A commitment to minimising surgical risks and enhancing recovery

Our holistic approach ensures comprehensive preoperative evaluation, precise intraoperative management, and effective postoperative care, making us a trusted choice for cardiothoracic anaesthesia.

Treatment Approaches in Cardiothoracic Anaesthesia

Cardiothoracic anaesthesia involves a range of tailored techniques designed to meet the specific needs of each patient. The key anaesthesia approaches include:

1. General Anaesthesia

The most commonly used technique, general anaesthesia, ensures complete unconsciousness and pain relief during surgery. It involves the administration of anaesthetic agents via inhalation or intravenous routes to maintain a controlled and stable physiological state.

2. Regional Anaesthesia

For certain cardiothoracic procedures, regional anaesthesia techniques such as thoracic epidurals or paravertebral blocks may be used to provide targeted pain relief. This approach can reduce opioid use, improve postoperative recovery, and enhance overall comfort.

3. Monitored Anaesthesia Care (MAC)

For minimally invasive cardiothoracic procedures, MAC involves sedation and analgesia while allowing the patient to remain responsive. This method balances comfort and awareness based on the patient’s needs and the complexity of the surgery.

4. Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB) Management

During surgeries requiring heart-lung bypass support, our anaesthetists are proficient in managing CPB techniques to maintain optimal hemodynamic stability, oxygenation, and organ perfusion.

5. Postoperative Pain Management

Effective pain management is critical for recovery after cardiothoracic surgery. We employ multimodal analgesia strategies, combining various medications and techniques to minimise discomfort and promote faster healing.

Cutting-Edge Technology in Cardiothoracic Anaesthesia

At Apollo Hospitals, we integrate state-of-the-art technology to enhance the precision and safety of cardiothoracic anaesthesia. Our advanced monitoring systems provide real-time data, allowing for immediate intervention when required. Key technological advancements include:

• Advanced Anaesthesia Delivery Systems – Ensuring precise administration of anaesthetic agents for enhanced patient safety.
• Intraoperative Monitoring Devices – Continuous tracking of cardiac function, oxygen saturation, and vital parameters to optimise surgical outcomes.
• Telemedicine Capabilities – Facilitating remote consultations and follow-ups for patient convenience and continuity of care.

Meet Our Expert Team

Our dedicated team of cardiothoracic anaesthetists at Apollo Hospitals comprises highly qualified specialists with extensive experience in managing complex cardiac and thoracic surgeries.

We follow a collaborative, patient-centric approach, working closely with cardiothoracic surgeons, intensivists, and nursing staff to ensure a personalised anaesthesia plan that prioritises safety and well-being at every stage of the surgical journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is cardiothoracic anaesthesia?

Cardiothoracic anaesthesia is a specialised field focusing on administering anaesthesia for surgeries involving the heart, lungs, and thoracic organs to ensure patient safety and comfort.

2. How is anaesthesia administered during cardiothoracic surgery?

Anaesthesia can be administered through general anaesthesia, regional anaesthesia, or monitored anaesthesia care, depending on the procedure and patient requirements.

3. What are the risks associated with cardiothoracic anaesthesia?

While all medical procedures carry some risk, our team takes extensive precautions to minimise complications, closely monitoring patients throughout the surgical process.

4. How will my pain be managed after surgery?

We use multimodal analgesia strategies to effectively manage pain, ensuring comfort and promoting a smooth recovery.

5. Can I eat or drink before my surgery?

Patients are generally advised to fast for a specific period before surgery. Your anaesthetist will provide personalised preoperative instructions.

6. What should I expect during my anaesthesia consultation?

During the consultation, your anaesthetist will review your medical history, discuss anaesthesia options, and address any concerns to ensure a tailored and safe anaesthesia plan.

7. How long do the effects of anaesthesia last?

The duration varies depending on the type of anaesthesia used. Most patients regain alertness within a few hours, though some residual effects may persist temporarily.

8. Will I be awake during surgery?

For most cardiothoracic procedures, general anaesthesia is used, ensuring you remain unconscious. In some minimally invasive cases, monitored anaesthesia care may allow for partial awareness.

9. What if I have allergies or pre-existing medical conditions?

It is essential to inform your anaesthetist about any allergies or medical conditions to personalise your anaesthesia plan and ensure your safety.