"open-heart surgery"的定义和意义

What is an "open-heart surgery"?

An open-heart surgery is a procedure where a large cut is made on the chest to access the heart directly. This surgery is performed to treat various heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, heart issues present at birth, or aortic aneurysms. During an open-heart surgery, the heart may be stopped temporarily, and a heart-lung machine is used to maintain blood circulation and provide oxygen to the body. Surgeons can then repair or replace damaged heart valves, create new paths around blocked coronary arteries using grafts, or fix problems in the heart's structure. Open-heart surgery is a complex procedure that requires careful preparation and monitoring to ensure successful outcomes for patients with serious heart conditions.