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Surgery for acute coronary syndrome

Acute coronary syndrome is a catch medical phrase that describes any medical condition which obstructs the blood flow to the heart.  The Montreal Heart institute is a major center for treating acute coronary syndrome.  

According to a major study of over 18, 000 patients conducted over a period of 17 years, the Montreal Heart Institute noted that the cases of acute coronary syndrome is going up every year in Montreal.

When medication is not enough surgeons must resort to surgery. The surgeons will perform either angioplasty and stenting or coronary bypass surgery.

Angioplasty and stenting

Angioplasty involves inserting a long tube (catheter) into the blocked artery.  The tube is filled with an inflated balloon that will enable the artery to expand.   A stent which is a mesh tube could also be inserted to further protect the arteries from narrowing. Angioplasty can perform by laser surgery.

Coronary bypass surgery

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When the concern for normal blow flow is an issue, coronary bypass surgery is the option used.  Coronary bypass surgery will also remove the threat associated with a blood clot. The intent of this surgery is to bypass the blocked artery by redirecting the blood from an artery from another part of the body to flow to the heart.  This surgery is instrumental in preventing a first or second heart attack.

Open heart surgery is always a risk.  The patient can experiences unwanted bleeding or irregular heart rhythm on the operating table.  There is always a risk of having a heart attack or stroke on the operating table, or experiencing memory loss and other cognitive abilities after the operation, though these medical issues are rare.

Most of the time your doctor is able to assess if you are a good candidate for coronary bypass surgery except if you are rushed into the hospital during an emergency and the operation must be performed to save your life. The risks associated with this kind of operation are much greater when you are rushed in the emergency.

Montreal doctors who have the time to decide if you are a good candidate for this kind of surgery will assess your general health and family history before deciding on the surgery. Montrealers who already have existing conditions such as emphysema, blocked leg arteries, diabetes, or kidney problems are generally at a high risk for this kind of surgery.

Source:

Mayo Clinic

, Montreal Health Examiner

Carol Roach is a McGill masters graduate of counselling psychology. Mind and body issues are interconnected and Carol is very interested in both mental and physical health. She has worked for the Douglas Hospital in Montreal and is a freelance writer who has written over 600 articles for medical...

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