What Is the Difference Between Open Heart Surgery and Closed Heart Surgery?

Open vs. Closed Heart Surgery: Key Differences Explained

Heart surgeries can sound scary, especially when you hear terms like ‘open heart’ or ‘closed heart' surgery. In India, many people seem confused about what these procedures are and are involved in. Let us break it down in simple terms so that anyone, even without critical medical knowledge, can understand the basic differences between open and closed heart surgery.

Key Differences Between Open and Closed Heart Surgery

There is no need to feel anxious about heart surgeries. So, let us explore the differences between the two in the table below:

When Does One Require Open-Heart Surgery?

People may need open-heart surgery for various conditions, such as heart valve problems, coronary heart disease, advanced heart failure or congenital heart disease. The coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is one of the most common forms of this surgery.

What Happens During an Open-Heart Surgery?

During open-heart surgery, the patient receives general anaesthesia. Surgeons make an incision in the chest and cut through the breastbone to access the heart. Often, a heart-lung bypass machine temporarily takes over blood circulation and breathing, allowing surgeons to operate on a still heart.

After that, a specific repair, such as bypassing a blocked artery or fixing a valve, is performed. Once the surgery is completed, the breastbone and incision are closed.

When Does One Require Closed-Heart Surgery?

Doctors often recommend closed-heart surgery for minor heart defects, valve replacements and atrial septal defects. It is a good option for those who cannot handle a major operation due to age or other health problems. However, this decision depends on the patient's heart condition, age, and overall health.

What Happens During Closed-Heart Surgery?

Closed heart surgery, also called minimally invasive heart surgery, is less complex. Surgeons do not fully open your chest. Instead, they make various small incisions to get there. In many cases, the procedure is done with the help of special instruments and sometimes even robotic assistance.

This surgery does not involve a heart-lung bypass machine. The recovery time is shorter, and hospital stays are often just a few days. Patients usually return to daily activities more quickly.

Risks and Complications of Open Heart Surgery

Every surgery has some risks. Since open heart surgery is more invasive, it comes with a higher chance of:

• Infection at the site of incision
• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Breathing problems
• Long-term recovery challenges
   

Understanding the difference between open and closed heart surgery can help patients and families make better decisions. While the first is a major procedure involving cutting open the chest and stopping the heart, the latter is less invasive and requires smaller cuts without stopping it.

Both surgeries are life-saving, and each has its role. The right choice depends on your heart condition, the risks involved, and the doctor's advice. Speak to your specialist, ask questions, and trust the process.