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Cardiac Investigations, Surgery & Treatments
Some years ago Germanys top heart transplant surgeons had a vision. That
vision was simply to open and operate the best heart transplant facility
in the world.With this in mind they acquired a former Canadian forces
hospital and refitted it with the finest facilities and best heart monitoring
equipment available. After completion of the project a decision was taken
not to offer heart transplant surgery but instead to perform all other
heart surgery & investigations such as valve replacements and repairs,
hole in the heart surgery and heart bypasses.
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That facility is now the Heart Institute,
Lahr, Germany and performs over 2500 heart bypasses a year, plus hundreds
of other cardiac procedures. Working together with a specialist rehabilitation institute the Heart Institute offers some of the most comprehensive heart care available today. Their royal suite is frequently hosting VIP’s that go for tests and intensive surgery. |
DHI Patient Rehabilitation
DHI Patient Rehabilitation at the nearby dedicated
heart rehab centre, Baden Baden.
Following heart surgery and a weeks rehabilitation at The Heart Institute,
patients that require further recuperation may transfer to the dedicated
specialist heart rehabilitation clinic at Baden Baden, Germany. The short
transfer is carried out by our patient transport vehicles.
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Heart Bypass Surgery - Frequently Asked Questions
What is multiple bypass surgery?
Sometimes several arteries are blocked, and several bypasses are needed.
If, for example, there were blockages in all three coronary arteries and
one branch, a person would get four bypasses. This is called quadruple
bypass surgery.
Are there any transfusions involved? Should I
bank my own blood?
Ordinarily, as with any serious heart surgery, blood transfusions are
necessary during bypass surgery.
What if my religion does not permit me to have
a transfusion?
A continuous “cell saver” machine is available for such instances.
If needed, is this included in price?
Transfusion is included in the price as is the use of the “cell saver”.
What is the blood screening
policy?
European policy on filtration and testing of blood is very strict. The
hospital is equipped with its own accredited laboratories. Blood samples
can be screened day or night. The ICU can locally provide blood-gas analysis
and ionography under the supervision of the central laboratory, which
is responsible for quality.
Practical arrangements describe:
Indications for:
Blood units are supplied
by the Blood Transfusion Centre, which is regulated by European Law, pertaining
to blood and derivates of blood of human origin; in addition, the European
guide to “qualification assurance of blood donation and preparation use”
is strictly followed (edition of 8th January 2002 under code R 9515)
Blood is screened for hepatitis B and C, HIV, syphilis and anti HBc antibodies.
How successful is bypass surgery?
Can I expect to live a long life?
Studies have shown in 80 to 95 percent of patients, bypasses made with
segments of the mammary artery still performed efficiently 10 years after
surgery. Two-thirds to 75 percent of patients who received grafts from
leg veins still had satisfactorily unrestricted blood flow after 10 years.
Remember that even if your graft becomes blocked, you may not need additional
bypass surgery.
Managing Your Pain
Pain medications help make you more comfortable. A nurse may give these
medications to you. If you feel pain, tell your nurse right away. Don't
wait until the pain gets bad before you mention it. Sometimes, a special
pump (called a PCA pump) is used. This pump lets you give yourself small
amounts of medication, as you need them.
Learning Respiratory Therapy
Deep-breathing and coughing exercises help you recover from surgery. They
keep your lungs clear, make your breathing muscles stronger, and prevent
complications. A nurse or therapist may teach you these exercises before
or soon after your surgery. Perform them as instructed after your surgery.
When will I be walking about?
You'll soon begin to move around to improve your muscle strength and blood
flow. Your nurse or a therapist will help you when you first get up and
walk. You may also be taught range-of-motion exercises. These help stretch
and strengthen your muscles as they heal.
Do I Go Directly Home After
My Hospital Stay?
The heart centre works closely with the Cardiac Care Rehabilitation Facility
at Gernsbach, Germany 30km from The Heart Centre. It is recommende that
a further weeks rehabilitation is taken at the Cardiac Rehabilitation
Facility. This will ensure that you are greatly recovered before your
journey home.
Will I need any Aftercare?
Our program is designed to incorporate sufficient physiotherapy thereby
leaving little or no requirement for aftercare. Comparative studies have
shown that our patients are sent home in better condition than those treated
in other facilities such as the NHS, BUPA and Nuffield hospitals.
What condition will I be in when I return
home?
You will be encouraged to walk before you leave the hospital. The condition
you will be in depends on many factors, especially your age and physical
condition before undergoing surgery. There is considerable variation between
candidates in the recovery process; some will get back on their feet faster
and be able to walk easily when they are ready to leave the hospital,
for others the recovery process is harder and takes longer. It will take
approximately 6 months for you to be able to walk long distances. The
process starts with short walks and gradually increases over the weeks
after surgery.
Leaving The Hospital
Before you leave the hospital the surgeon will go over the results of
your surgery with you. You will be told what to expect while you get better
and about any more treatment you may need. Whether leaving for the airport
or transferring to the Rehabilitation Facility at Gernsbach The Heart
Centre will arrange your transport.
When can I drive?
Following major surgery patients should not drive for two months unless
directed by their physician.
Will there be someone there who speaks
English?
Peter Muehlecker our hospital liaison person is there to assist you in
any way.. he has an extensive knowledge of the local area and is also
an expert on the local wines and restaurants. He speaks fluent English
as do some of the hospital staff and will be there to answer any questions
you may have.
Planning your Journey
Our staff will assist you in planning your journey. This is especially
necessary when undergoing hip and knee surgery to ensure that you return
home in comfort.
Can I bring a relative or friend?
Yes, there is a number of bed & breakfast facilities nearby within
a few hundred yards of the facility. We would be happy to arrange the
accommodation for friends & family members. We prefer if at least
one person accompanies you.
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Related Links
Cardiac Diagnostic Investigations &
Surgery Prices
We can help with your Travel Arrangements
To Book please Contact Us by Phone, E-mail or
Fax
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Direct Healthcare International Ltd 2004 - 2008 |