Potential Lifestyle Changes After Undergoing A Maze Procedure

If you suffer from atrial fibrillation and medications have proven ineffective for reducing your symptoms, your doctor will likely suggest Maze surgery. This is a procedure in which a surgeon creates scarring in your left and right atria (the two upper chambers of your heart). The scar tissue allows the surgeon to create a path along which electrical impulses from your sinus node travel. If the operation is successful, it can eliminate atrial fibrillation.

There are a few different strategies that surgeons will take when performing Maze surgery. Some doctors will have the skills and equipment necessary to perform the operation with a minimally invasive approach. Others will opt for traditional thoracotomy in which your chest is opened, your sternum is cut, and your ribs are spread.

This article will focus on lifestyle changes that are typically necessary after undergoing this type of surgery. We’ll first describe the postoperative at-home recovery process.

Changes Immediately Following The Operation

Once you have been discharged by the hospital, you’ll need to follow a strict recovery regimen at home. Your doctor will likely prescribe an anticoagulant, such as warfarin or heparin, that will help prevent blood clots. You may also be required to take beta-blockers in order to prevent arrhythmias. A diuretic may be prescribed to reduce the amount of fluid your body retains following the operation.

While less important after minimally invasive Maze surgery, the incision made by the surgeon must be carefully cleaned after it heals. Lotions should not be applied to it. During the two months following the procedure, you’ll likely feel some level of pain near the incision. It will gradually decline.

Long-Term Lifestyle Changes

Whenever surgery is performed on the heart, whether through a full thoracotomy or a minimally invasive approach, it’s important to consider your lifestyle. If changes can be made that reduce the amount of work your heart endures, make them.

For example, if you normally smoke, you should stop after the Maze procedure has been performed. Smoking increases your heart rate while limiting the oxygen within your blood. You should also examine your diet to eliminate foods that place long-term stress on your heart. Fruits and vegetables should be included and fatty foods should be avoided.

Also, be sure to watch your weight. Excess weight can place an enormous strain on your heart, causing it to work harder than it should. Eating smaller meals and adopting a workout routine are important. With regard to exercising, your doctor will help you formulate a workout that will rehabilitate your heart.

Lastly, take the medications prescribed by your doctor. Depending on your condition and specific factors that are unique to your circumstances, your physician may wish you to take blood thinners and beta-blockers for longer than normal.

Maze surgery, even if it is performed through minimally invasive techniques, is still heart surgery. Speak with your doctor regarding lifestyle changes that will play a key role in your long-term health and survival.

Related posts:

  1. What You Can Expect After Undergoing The Atrial Maze Procedure
  2. What Is The Maze Procedure?
  3. Surgical Techniques Used During An Atrial Maze Procedure
  4. Overview Of Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery
  5. Basics Of Heart Bypass Surgery