If you're researching information related to heart surgery and recovery, you've likely come across mentions of heart pillows (also known as chest or cough pillows). For years, these pillows have been standard issue in many hospitals for patients recovering from heart surgery or sternotomies. The traditional thinking was that heart pillows could provide comfort and support when patients needed to cough, sneeze, or manage pain.
The heart pillow is provided by many hospitals to be used after heart surgery or sternotomies. Heart pillows used after surgery are meant to give patients something to hold to their chest when they need to cough or sneeze or to try and help alleviate some pain.
But as medical science advances, it's crucial to reassess long-standing practices. So, let's dive into the question: Are heart pillows truly useful additions to surgery recovery plans?
IN SHORT, THE ANSWER IS NO.
THE LACK OF EVIDENCE FOR HEART PILLOWS
Despite their widespread use, there is a striking lack of scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of heart pillows in post-surgical recovery. Here are some key points to consider:
- No proven reduction in complications: Studies have failed to show that heart pillows significantly reduce post-operative complications.
- Limited therapeutic value: There's no substantial evidence that these pillows serve as an effective therapeutic aid for patients.
- Inconsistent support: Patients must hold the pillow in place, making it an unreliable form of constant support.
- Potential hygiene issues: Pillows can easily collect germs from various surfaces, potentially introducing infection risks.
- Promotion of sedentary behavior: Using a pillow might inadvertently encourage patients to remain inactive, which is contrary to best practices for post-surgical recovery.
- Lack of pain management evidence: Studies have not demonstrated that heart pillows effectively reduce patients' pain levels.
- No standardized guidelines: There are no evidence-based guidelines for how to properly use these pillows in post-surgical care.
The Hidden Costs of Heart Pillows
Although once believed to be a viable solution for patients in pain, Heart Pillows can cost hospitals tremendously in the future due to complications that the pillows do not address. Here are a few facts about the use of the pillow:
- Pillows cannot reduce sternal wound infections (DSWI), which results in high costs to hospitals.
- Pillows cannot splint the sternotomy, and it puts downward pressure on the wound.
- Pillows do not function as consistent support as they must be held in place by the patient when it’s needed.
- Pillows always risk introducing infections as they come into constant contact with environmental surfaces such as car seats, couches, floors, etc.
- Using a pillow promotes a more sedentary recovery, which is precisely the opposite of what should be happening following heart surgery.
- There are no evidence-based guidelines for post-surgical care using the pillow.
- Pillows do not help reduce a patient’s pain level.
- Using a pillow does not help give patients the confidence needed to perform their respiratory exercises without fear of making their wounds worse.
WHY PILLOWS AREN’T WORTH IT
To sum up, there is simply no scientific evidence showing a heart pillow’s efficacy. One issue is that heart pillows cannot be accessed by patients at all times. Additionally, there are some questions about whether heart pillows are too unhygienic to be kept near wounds. Because pillows can be placed anywhere and are made of fabric, they can easily pick up germs.
The claims made by Heart Pillow manufacturers would lead one to believe that they have tested and proved the pillow to be viable sternal support, but that just isn’t the case. The Heart Pillow has slipped through the cracks of today’s evidence-based medicine.
Heart Pillows serve as great mementos and may provide a little comfort for patients, but there is a more effective, clinically-proven alternative.
Heart Hugger: THE Evidence-Based Alternative
Want a different option with scientific evidence backing its effectiveness? Meet the Heart Hugger. The Heart Hugger is a sternal harness worn by patients who need sternal support and wound stability. Like the heart pillow, the Heart Hugger can be used for coughing and sneezing, but with better results and more hygienic makeup.
Heart Hugger offers even more benefits beyond that as well. Patients are fitted for the device before surgery, then immediately after surgery, the patient begins wearing it. Rather than a soft item that can be easily misplaced and may not even help, the Heart Hugger is worn round the clock and offers evidence-based solutions.
Advantages of the Heart Hugger:
- Consistent support: Unlike a pillow, the Heart Hugger is worn continuously, providing constant sternal support.
- Evidence-based design: The device has been clinically tested and proven effective in supporting recovery.
- Improved hygiene: As a personal medical device, it's less likely to introduce external contaminants compared to a pillow.
- Promotes mobility: The harness allows for easier movement, encouraging patients to stay active during recovery.
- Pain management: Studies have shown the Heart Hugger to be effective in reducing post-operative pain.
- Customizable fit: Patients are fitted for the device before surgery, ensuring optimal support.
- Immediate post-op use: The Heart Hugger can be applied immediately after surgery, providing early intervention support.
Find out more about sternal support, wound stability, and pain management with the Heart Hugger by contacting us today!
And, for medical professionals who want to learn more about the benefits of Heart Hugger for patients and hospitals, please visit our resource page for healthcare professionals or contact us.
