Reop Sternotomy - How Many is too Many?

Guest: Joseph A. Dearani, M.D. and Elizabeth H. Stephens, M.D., Ph.D.

Hosts: Patricia A. Pellikka, M.D.

Reoperations are inevitable for many structural heart lesions, and in some cases, it may be multiple reoperations over a lifetime. Current techniques in perioperative imaging and contemporary surgical techniques make cardiac reoperations safe in most circumstances. Lifelong surveillance with a heart team approach of both cardiology and cardiac surgery is the optimal strategy to determine the proper timing of reoperation to achieve a good outcome.

Topics Discussed:

How many reoperations can a patient have?
What are the most common reasons for the need for reoperation?
Is it true that the risk of reoperation is often the same as a first-time operation?
What matters most with patient selection for reoperation?
Can a minimally invasive approach be applied at a reoperation?
Is the length of hospital stay and postoperative recovery different with reoperation?
Do all surgeons do cardiac reoperations?

Connect with Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Continuing Medical Education online at https://cveducation.mayo.edu or on Twitter @MayoClinicCV and @MayoCVservices.

LinkedIn: Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular Services

Cardiovascular Education App:
The Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular CME App is an innovative educational platform that features cardiology-focused continuing medical education wherever and whenever you need it. Use this app to access other free content and browse upcoming courses. Download it for free in Apple or Google stores today!

No CME credit offered for this episode.

Podcast episode transcript found here.