Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in and of itself does not require a continuing medical regimen but will not eliminate the need for some of the medications you may have been on preoperatively such as medications for hypertension. We hope that this surgery will take care of your anginal pain or discomfort thus you should not need the nitroglycerin you were taking prior to surgery. Valve replacement surgery, depending on the type of valve used, may require long term anticoagulation (blood thinners, usually coumadin). The use of anticoagulants will necessitate regular blood testing to adjust your drug dose. Also, after valve surgery you will need to have antibiotic coverage for some dental work or other surgical procedures.

Before you leave the hospital, a dietician will meet with you to discuss your diet. This will generally be prescribed and followed by your cardiologist.

Adult heart surgery is generally performed to help the heart perform more like it did before the changes resulting from the disease process you have experienced. Thus, allowing you to enjoy life more fully.