New technique for heart bypass introduced

LUDHIANA, MARCH 22, 2017: In a significance development that could benefit heart patients from region including Punjab, the heart bypass surgery through minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) has been introduced at Max Hospital, Mohali. In this new technique the heart is approached through either side of chest via a small 3-4 inches incision.
Sandeep Dogra, senior vice president & zonal head, Max Hospitals Punjab said the latest technology will hugely benefit patients from Punjab.
It may be mentioned here that conventional open heart surgery is performed by splitting or cutting through the breastbone (sternum). MICS for coronary bypass surgery is a safe procedure that has revolutionized the way coronary surgery is performed.
Dr Sarwal along with world renowned heart surgeon, Dr Lucia Torracca, chief of cardiac surgery department, Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona Italy Dr Lucia have demonstrated live surgeries of this new technique at Max Hospital on Monday .
Giving details of this new technique, Dr Sarwal said that the cut is placed just under the nipple and the chest is entered between the ribs without cutting any bones and by splitting the muscle.
He said further , the technique has several advantages in reducing pain, retaining function and having a positive effect on breathing. Unlike traditional heart surgery return to normal life including driving or other activities is not disrupted and can be started almost immediately.
Blood loss is almost negligible eliminating blood transfusion in most and eliminating blood borne infection. Reduced infections whether it be wound infections or post surgical lung infection. This makes the procedure ideal in diabetics and older patients who have poor resistance to infection. The procedure Hospital stay is only 4 days unlike the conventional heart surgery that takes 9 days, informed Dr. Sarwal.
Dr Lucia said that the incision is so cosmetic and measures just 3-4 inches that it's practically impossible to tell that a heart operation has been done, so it is a preferred procedure especially for women.