Arkansas Heart HospitalCardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryWhat to Expect: CV Surgery

What to Expect: CV Surgery

Arkansas Heart’s cardiovascular surgery program provides advanced surgical treatment for heart and vascular disease, from coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to valve repair or replacement. Our multidisciplinary team of surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and nurses works together to ensure that every patient receives precise, personalized care before, during and after surgery.

Cardiovascular surgery includes a range of advanced procedures designed to restore or improve heart function – from Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) to valve repair or replacement. For example, bypass surgery uses a healthy blood vessel grafted around blocked coronary arteries to improve blood flow. Valve repair or replacement addresses diseased heart valves that impact circulation and cardiac efficiency.

Understanding Your Procedure

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
When arteries that supply blood to your heart become blocked or narrowed, bypass surgery can restore healthy blood flow. During this procedure, your surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel — often from your leg, arm or chest — and grafts it around the blocked artery to create a new path for blood to reach your heart muscle. This helps reduce symptoms like chest pain and lowers your risk of heart attack.

Heart Valve Repair or Replacement
Heart valves ensure blood flows efficiently through the heart’s chambers. When a valve is damaged or diseased, whether from age, infection or congenital conditions, it may not open or close properly, forcing your heart to work harder. Your surgeon may repair the valve using specialized techniques or replace it with a biological or mechanical valve to restore proper circulation.

What to Expect With CV Surgery

Before Surgery

  • You’ll undergo a full pre-operative evaluation including imaging, labs and anesthesia consultation.
  • Your team will review your medications and discuss fasting, skin prep and arrival instructions.
  • You’ll meet members of your surgical team who will support you throughout recovery.

During Surgery

  • The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be fully asleep.
  • Your heart may be temporarily supported by a heart-lung bypass machine while your surgeon works.
  • CABG typically takes 3–5 hours, while valve repair or replacement may take 3–6 hours.
  • After surgery, you’ll be moved to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) for close monitoring, and later to a private room in the Progressive Critical Care Unit (PCCU).

After Surgery

  • While in the PCCU, your assigned critical care nurse will continue to closely monitor your progression.
  • Activity, deep breathing and coughing to clear your lungs will be your primary focus throughout the rest of your hospital stay.
  • The usual hospital stay is four to five days total, but everyone progresses at his/her own rate.
  • Before discharge, you’ll receive a detailed home-care guide and be scheduled for follow-up and cardiac rehabilitation.

Recovery & Long-Term Care

Healing from heart surgery takes time – typically 6 to 12 weeks for most patients. Our team partners with you to rebuild confidence and strength through our Strong Hearts intensive cardiac rehab program that combine monitored exercise, nutrition counseling and emotional support. Lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, stress management and medication adherence are key to long-term success.

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