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Is An Open Heart Surgery Effective Of Blocked Heart Vessels?

Posted on Tue, 30 Dec 2014

Question: I am 80 years and have been diagnosed with 70% and 50% blockage in two vessels. Open heart surgery has been advised. A stent or balloon cannot be done. Largely because of my age, I have resisted the surgery. I think it is very invasive and long recovery. I am willing to live with the risks involved w/o surgery. I know you do not know specifics of my case, but am I putting my life at risk to get away from the surgery? Please advise. Thank you. XXXX

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (23 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Two vessels disease may be treated with stents, other data needed...

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX
I read your query and understood your concerns.

As long as you don't want open heart surgery than other possibilities should be taken in consideration. You are saying that you have been diagnosed with a two vessels disease, which usually may be treated with coronary stenting.

However I need to have more data from you so i will be able to give the proper recommendation for you.
- Can you upload the data report of the angiography?
- Do you suffer from any chronic disease especially diabetes and renal failure?
- Did they found any other abnormalities in your examinations?

I'm waiting to have the requested information.
Wish you health!
Dr. Benard

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Benard Shehu (3 hours later)

I do not have access to data report. The surgeon told me it was two critical vessels that supply the heart. I don't have any chronic diseases. No other abnormalities were found, although I have had PVCs for many years. Would these pose a problem with the surgery? Given that I am 80 years old I don't see the point of going through the problems associated with the surgery. I know that the decision is up to me alone, but I would like to get as much information as I can before I decline the surgery or go through with it. Thank you for your help.

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Upon your request the coronary stenting can be done.

Detailed Answer:
Hi back,

Without all the needed data my opinion may be not as accurate as of your doctor. However as a rule coronary stenting can be done in a two vessels patient especially if he doesn’t want to go on open heart surgery. In this case even if the surgery is the first choice, upon your request the coronary stenting can be done.

However I recommend discussing again about all the treatment options with your doctor. He has all the needed data to take the best decision for you.

Wish you health!
DR. Benard

Note: click here to Consult a cardiac surgeon online. to know the best treatment option for your heart-related issues

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar