Before your surgery is scheduled, you will undergo some or all of the following tests:

• Blood and urine tests
• Chest X-ray
• Coronary angiogram (cardiac catheterization)
• Echocardiogram (ECHO)
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Physical exam
• Pulmonary function tests if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

You may need to stop taking certain medications for one week before cardiac surgery, such as:

• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs
• Blood-thinners
• Metformin

Please bring any Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) forms or insurance paperwork that needs to be filled out to the hospital with you. Before your procedure, an anesthesiologist will meet with you to answer questions and explain the process.

For your surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia—a combination of IV medications and inhaled gases that put you to sleep. The anesthesiologist will monitor your brain waves to ensure you remain asleep throughout the procedure and will not feel any pain.

At TriStar Medical Group, we support you during your recovery from heart surgery. Our care team works closely with your cardiologist and primary care physician to help you get back to your life as quickly and safely as possible.

Sometimes after surgery, you may need additional rehabilitation in a facility or home health assistance. Our team works with you to determine what is best for your condition, including what medications you may need. Occasionally, you may require oxygen or other medical devices. If you need this, our team helps you set it up before you leave for home. We also provide detailed instructions and information for any new medications you may need.

There are also guidelines and restrictions you should follow while recovering from heart surgery, such as:

• Avoid people with flu-like symptoms.
• Do not smoke or be around others who are smoking.
• Do not lift anything heavier than 3 pounds for eight weeks. Do not lift anything more than 20 pounds for an additional four weeks.
• Do not take any over-the-counter medications without checking with your doctor first.
• Eat a nutritious diet as described in your discharge packet. Avoid empty calories from foods like candy and chips. If you're a diabetic or on a special diet before surgery, stick to your diet during your recovery.
• Pain medications should be used as needed.
• Prioritize daily exercise. The first day at home, take at least three short walks up to 10 minutes each. You may also take the stairs, taking one at a time until you're ready. Do not walk outdoors if the temperature is greater than 85 F or less than 45 F.
• Shower every day with an antibacterial soap. Do not soak in a tub, hot tub or swim in a pool. Do not apply any antibiotic creams or lotions unless instructed to do so by your doctor.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Cough, shortness of breath or chest pain
• Fever greater than 101.5 F
• Nausea and/or vomiting you can't control with medication or lasts longer than expected
• Pain or burning during urination, urgent or frequent urination or persistent blood in the urine
• Pain and/or swelling in your feet, calves or legs
• Redness, swelling, tenderness or drainage

When you are discharged from the hospital, you will be given an appointment to follow up with your doctor. After your doctor releases you from care, it is important to also visit your cardiologist. You can begin cardiac rehabilitation soon after you visit your surgeon.

You may experience emotional side effects such as depression. If you feel like your progress isn't fast enough, talk with your spouse, family or close friends. Exercise will also help you manage depression. Feelings tend to subside as you begin to resume normal activity. Although you are not permitted to drive, you are not confined to your home. As you are able, it is important to try to avoid any stressful situations.

The average length of time before returning to work is eight to 12 weeks. We are happy to provide you with a return-to-work notice after your follow-up visit with your doctor.