Cardiac Surgery

Heart Surgery Recovery in India - What International Patients Should Expect?

Recovery after heart surgery is a gradual process. This short explains the typical stages, from the intensive care unit to preparing for your journey home.

Your hospital stay after surgery

After your operation, you are usually moved to an intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring.

• Initial care. You will be connected to monitors that track your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. You may have a breathing tube for a short time.
• Moving to a ward. Once your condition is stable, often after a day or two, you are moved to a cardiac ward. Here, the team helps you start moving around.
• Managing pain. Pain is managed with medication to keep you comfortable. It is important to tell your nurses if you are in pain so they can adjust your treatment.
• Physiotherapy. A physiotherapist will guide you through breathing exercises and gentle movements. This helps your recovery and can prevent complications like chest infections.

Getting ready for your journey home

The medical team will ensure you are well enough to travel before you are discharged.

• Wound care. Nurses will show you how to care for your surgical wound. You will receive instructions on keeping it clean and dry.
• Medication. You will be given a supply of medications and a clear schedule for taking them. These may include blood thinners, pain relief, and drugs for blood pressure.
• Activity levels. Your surgeon will advise on what activities are safe. This usually involves gentle walking, but avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous effort for several weeks.
• Follow-up plan. You will receive a plan for follow-up care. This may include appointments with a local doctor once you are back in your home country.

The exact recovery timeline and process can vary for each person. Your suitability for travel and the specific care you need will be determined by a specialist after a full review of your medical reports and recent imaging.