Stamford Hospital: Open Heart Surgery Options

Stamford Health is a non-profit independent healthcare system that provides expert, compassionate, and personalized care to its patients. The Heart and Vascular Institute at Stamford Hospital offers an extensive range of cardiac services, including advanced surgical procedures such as open-heart surgery, valve replacement, and vascular surgery. The hospital has been recognized for its high-quality patient care and has received awards and accolades for its cardiac surgery program. With a dedicated team of skilled surgeons, cardiologists, and cardiac surgeons, Stamford Hospital is committed to providing world-class treatment and expertise to its patients.

Stamford Health's Heart & Vascular Institute

The Heart & Vascular Institute provides comprehensive screening, evaluation, and life-saving treatment to patients with structural heart and valve disease. The team of experienced cardiologists and cardiac surgeons utilise state-of-the-art equipment to accurately diagnose and treat conditions such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and heart failure. The cardiologists have extensive expertise and advanced technology capabilities in interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, diagnostics, and imaging.

The Heart & Vascular Institute offers both routine and complex procedures, with a focus on personalised care from pre-surgery to recovery. Patients have access to world-class cardiac treatment and expertise from nationally recognised heart surgeons. The Institute has expanded its relationship with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, one of the top cardiac programs in the country, ensuring that patients benefit from the latest advancements in cardiac care.

The Institute also offers comprehensive support and follow-up care for patients post-cardiac surgery, with a cardiac rehabilitation program that plays a crucial role in long-term recovery. Patients can expect thorough pre-surgical preparations, including medical evaluations, tests, and lifestyle adjustments, guided by a dedicated nurse navigator. After surgery, patients recover in private rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding area and can be joined by their care partners.

Cardiac surgery clinical trials

Stamford Hospital in Connecticut offers open-heart surgery as part of its cardiac surgery program. The hospital's Heart & Vascular Institute offers advanced surgical procedures, including valve replacement, complex coronary angioplasty, and coronary artery stenting. The institute has expanded its relationship with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, granting patients access to nationally recognized heart surgeons.

Regarding cardiac surgery clinical trials, there are several ongoing and upcoming trials at various institutions. For instance, Weill Cornell Medicine is conducting a prospective randomized clinical trial evaluating a new method for preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation. The primary objective is to determine the incidence of Post-Operative Atrial Fibrillation (POAF) after cardiac surgery when posterior pericardiotomy is performed. Another clinical trial at Weill Cornell Medicine focuses on the use of wearable personal fitness monitors (WPFMs) in risk assessment and recuperation for minimally invasive cardiac surgery. The study aims to create new paradigms for patient selection and postoperative recovery.

Additionally, Stanford Medicine is involved in pioneering new approaches to cardiothoracic surgery, often serving as a site for national or regional clinical trials. They encourage individuals to research ongoing trials on ClinicalTrials.gov and discuss potential opportunities with their doctors.

Stamford Health also mentions the availability of clinical trials related to cardiac surgery. Eligible individuals can obtain information about research opportunities through discussions with their care team or by browsing current clinical trials online.

Pre-surgical preparations

Stamford Health's Heart & Vascular Institute in Stamford, CT, offers open-heart surgery and other advanced surgical procedures. The institute has expanded its relationship with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, giving patients access to world-class cardiac treatment.

Before undergoing cardiac surgery, patients must make thorough pre-surgical preparations. At Stamford Health, a dedicated nurse navigator guides each patient through specific requirements, which may include medical evaluations, tests, and lifestyle adjustments. Here are some important steps to prepare for heart surgery:

Preoperative Visit and Consultation:

During the preoperative visit, your surgeon or a member of their team will review your health history, including any films and X-rays. They will also perform a brief clinical exam. The surgeon will then discuss whether surgery is appropriate, the type of surgery recommended, the associated risks and benefits, and the recuperation process.

Preoperative Testing:

Before surgery, you will meet with a member of the cardiac anesthesiology team, who will review your procedure and discuss the intravenous and monitoring lines. They will also answer any questions you may have about anesthetic care.

Signing Consent Forms:

You will be required to sign an "Informed Consent for Surgical Operation" form, providing permission for the treatment. You may also need to sign additional consent forms on the day of the surgery.

Prepare Necessary Items:

It is advisable to prepare a small bag with a robe, slippers, and toiletry items. You will also need a storage case for dentures, hearing aids, glasses, or contact lenses. Additionally, ensure you have your insurance card, personal identification, and a list of your current medications. If applicable, bring a copy of your health care proxy and/or living will.

Pre-surgical Instructions:

Your surgical team will provide you with specific pre-surgical instructions, including any lifestyle adjustments. It is crucial to follow these guidelines diligently to optimize your readiness for the procedure and ensure a successful outcome.

Pain Management:

Your physician may prescribe pain relievers, which should be taken as directed and discontinued as soon as possible. Additionally, consider non-medication pain management techniques such as distraction (TV, reading, puzzles, music) and healing therapies (aromatherapy, integrative medicine, breathing exercises).

Cardiac Rehabilitation:

Enrolling in a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is recommended as an important part of your post-surgical treatment plan. This program provides a personalized recovery plan, including guidance on physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and other health-related areas.

It is important to remember that cardiac surgery is a major operation that can be emotionally challenging. Taking the proper time to recover is essential for complete healing. A dedicated cardiac care team will support you throughout your journey, from pre-surgical preparations to your recovery.

Heart conditions and treatments

Stamford Health's Heart & Vascular Institute offers an extensive range of cardiac services, including diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, interventional cardiology, and advanced surgical procedures such as open-heart surgery and valve replacement. The hospital has been recognised by U.S. News & World Report 2024-2025 as a High-Performing Hospital in heart attack care.

The Heart & Vascular Institute is committed to providing genuine patient-centred care with exceptional quality outcomes. The hospital participates in several national safety initiatives, including the American College of Cardiology National Cardiovascular Disease Registries and the American Heart Association's Get With the Guidelines® Program. These programs help measure the level of care provided to heart patients.

Stamford Health offers comprehensive support and follow-up care for patients post-cardiac surgery. Their cardiac rehabilitation program offers support for several qualifying heart conditions, playing a crucial role in long-term recovery. The hospital also provides a multidisciplinary team of heart specialists, including vascular surgeons, cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, interventional radiologists, and medical staff, who work together to improve patient outcomes.

The hospital's cardiac surgeons perform a range of procedures, including TAVR, which is performed on a beating heart and does not require cardio-pulmonary bypass. They also perform complex coronary angioplasties, balloon aortic valvuloplasties, and coronary artery stenting, among other procedures. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a hybrid operating room that enables the simultaneous provision of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Stamford Health's skilled team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, physician assistants, and support staff deliver a high level of surgical care. The hospital provides a holistic approach to surgery, encouraging healing for the mind, body, and spirit. Patients receive support, guidance, and services to make informed decisions, prepare for surgery, and return to everyday life.

Patient experience

Stamford Health provides expert heart and vascular care, with a dedicated team of cardiologists offering comprehensive treatment options. The Heart and Vascular Institute offers an extensive range of cardiac services, including diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, interventional cardiology, and advanced surgical procedures such as valve replacement and open-heart surgery.

The patient experience at Stamford Hospital is centred around compassionate, personalized care, with access to sophisticated clinical expertise. The hospital has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report 2024-2025 as a High Performing Hospital in heart attack care and rated five stars by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for Overall Quality. The hospital also participates in several national safety initiatives, including the American College of Cardiology National Cardiovascular Disease Registries, to ensure the highest level of care for patients.

Before cardiac surgery, a dedicated nurse navigator guides patients through pre-surgical preparations, which may include medical evaluations, tests, and lifestyle adjustments. Stamford Health also offers comprehensive support and follow-up care post-cardiac surgery, with a cardiac rehabilitation program to aid in long-term recovery. Patients have access to large private rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding area, and care partners are welcome to wait at the hospital and join patients post-procedure.

Stamford Health's skilled team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and support staff work together to provide a high level of surgical care. The hospital accommodates advanced procedures and provides a calming and welcoming environment for patients and their families. Stamford Health's Heart and Vascular Institute is in the 90th percentile for patients' likelihood to recommend it to a friend or family member, reflecting its commitment to patient-centered care.

The hospital also offers innovative, minimally invasive treatment modalities, such as the TAVR procedure, to promote quicker recovery. Additionally, patients can participate in clinical trials related to cardiac surgery and benefit from the latest advancements and collaborations with institutions like Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

Frequently asked questions