Posted by Heart Hugger on Nov 12, 2024 9:00:00 AM
If you have just experienced cardiac or thoracic surgery, or you have a surgery scheduled in the near future, then you probably would like to know all you can about cardiac surgery rehabilitation. Depending on the nature of the surgery and what needed to be done, the recovery time for the patient will vary. One thing that typically remains constant in an open heart surgery is the importance placed on the recovery of the wound or sternal closure. Sternal wound dehiscence is something that needs to be avoided at all costs for those recovering from cardiac surgery.
The recovery process may be long, but it is a natural process of surgery. You can expect the first phase of recovery to last six to eight weeks. Once a patient is discharged from the hospital, the patient and the caregiver will be given a set of instructions aimed at making the post-surgery process as smooth as possible. With all surgeries and medical procedures, there may be quite a bit of pain associated with the wound and area of the surgery. Patients that are recovering are going to want to alleviate this pain as much as possible to remain comfortable during their recovery phase.
Understanding Your Recovery Timeline
The initial weeks after surgery are crucial for proper healing. During this time, your body is working hard to repair itself, and following proper recovery protocols becomes essential. Your healthcare team will monitor your progress and adjust recommendations based on how you're healing. Remember that while six to eight weeks is typical, everyone's recovery journey is unique.
Pain Management During Cardiac Surgery Rehabilitation
- Pain medication prescribed by your surgeon or primary care physician.
- Refraining from physical activity or lifting heavy objects.
- Keeping the incision clean and dry.
- Using a device for postoperative sternal support.
- Following your healthcare team's instructions for wound care
- Maintaining proper posture during rest and movement
- Using breathing techniques when necessary
Things to Remember about Activity Following Heart Surgery
- Increase your rate of activity gradually.
- Refrain from lifting objects over 10 pounds.
- Don't push or pull heavy objects.
- Take a daily walk if advised and instructed by your physician or cardiac rehabilitation specialist.
- Listen to your body's signals
- Rest when needed
- Keep track of your daily activities
- Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare team
Managing Unavoidable Movements
It's important to understand that some things are unavoidable after heart surgery, such as coughing or sneezing. That is where the use of a device such as Heart Hugger comes into play. Being patient operated by squeezing together two handles, thereby securing the wound, a patient can operate the device whenever they feel necessary. This includes getting up to move around or performing basic chores.
The Heart Hugger sternum support harness provides:
- Immediate stabilization during coughing or sneezing
- Support while changing positions
- Confidence during necessary movements
- Protection against excess strain on your healing sternum
The Role of Support Devices in Recovery
Having proper support during recovery isn't just about comfort. It's also about protecting your healing process. Devices like Heart Hugger are designed to provide stability during necessary movements, helping you maintain independence while protecting your surgical site. This support becomes especially important during unavoidable actions like coughing, sneezing, or getting out of bed.
Keys to Successful Recovery
Remember to:
- Take your time with each activity
- Follow all post-operative instructions carefully
- Use your support devices as directed
- Keep all follow-up appointments
- Stay in communication with your healthcare team
- Be patient with your progress
Remember to take your time to make sure your recovery goes as smoothly as possible. Each step forward, no matter how small, is progress toward your recovery goals.
Want to learn more about cardiac rehabilitation support options? Contact us at 800.798.2667 to discuss how we can help make your recovery journey more comfortable and confident.
