OPCAB

1
Is OPCAB Worth The Pain And Effort?
Isnt it interesting to know that the first ever
successful bypass was done as a beating heart
operation? This was way back in 1964 by a Russian
surgeon, Colosev. But since then the conventional
bypass operation has developed as a safe
procedure and has stood the test of time.
2
Interest in OPCAB was rekindled in the late 80s
and 90s. Due to the steep learning curve and lack
of evidence for better outcome compared to
standard operation, many surgeons lost initial
enthusiasm and went back to the old time tested
methods. The few who persisted many of them in
India- have provided valuable information
regarding the safety and efficacy of this
demanding surgery.
3
From the emerging data across the world it is now
clear that OPCAB can be as complete a bypass
operation as the standard one. It provides better
results in terms of early deaths, strokes and
kidney failures. The difference becomes far more
apparent in high risk patients especially very
old and those having diminished kidney or lung
functions. One of the most important areas where
OPCAB is making its mark is the field of repeat
operations. OPCAB reduces the blood loss and
recovery time in those situations.
4
In short, OPCAB in experienced hands is as
complete and more safe than the
standard operation. It may be ideally suited in
very old and critically sick patients.
For consultation
Dr. John E V Head of the Department, Department
Of Cardiovascular Surgery Sunrise
Hospital Seaport - Airport Road, Kakkanad, Kochi
- 682 030, Kerala, India. Contact details- Tel
91 9995434560 Website www.heartandaorta.com