Cardiovascular Surgical program

Cardiovascular disease refers to a wide range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels some of which can lead to significant health complications The most common types include coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart diseases. These conditions can lead to serious health issues, including heart attacks and strokes, making early diagnosis and effective treatment crucial. Numerous factors, such as underlying medical problems including diabetes and obesity, genetic predispositions, and lifestyle choices, are known to contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Treatment in Cuba for cardiovascular disease comprises a broad set of interventions and therapy aimed at managing and improving heart health, ranging from lifestyle modifications and medications to advanced surgical procedures.

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HIGHLIGHTS OF CARDIOVASCULAR TREATMENT IN CUBA:

DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE:

Accurate diagnosis is the first step in effective cardiovascular treatment. During the diagnostic stage, a variety of advanced imaging and testing techniques are performed. Included are:

• Electrocardiograms (ECGs) to measure the heart’s electrical activity
• Echocardiograms to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function.
• Stress tests are carried out to evaluate the heart’s performance under physical exertion.
• Cardiac catheterization, which is the insertion of a catheter into the blood vessels to reach the heart, may be carried out for some cases to directly examine and treat certain heart conditions.
• CT and MRI scans are taken to provide comprehensive images of the heart and blood vessels, aiding in the precise diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases.

DIAGNOSTIC NON-INVASIVE TREATMENTS:

Non-invasive treatments are often the first line of defense in managing cardiovascular diseases. These treatments primarily include:

• Medications such as beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and anticoagulants to help control blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent blood clots.
• Lifestyle modifications are critical in preventing disease progression and improving overall health. This includes adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing stress
• Routine monitoring and regular check-ups enable early detection of potential issues and timely adjustments to treatment plans.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURES (MIP):

Minimally invasive procedures offer effective treatment options with shorter recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional surgeries. MIP encompass several advanced techniques, including:

• Angioplasty and Stenting: Involves inserting a balloon-tipped catheter to open blocked arteries, often followed by placing a stent to keep the artery open.
• Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): A procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve through a catheter, avoiding open-heart surgery.
• Catheter Ablation: Uses radiofrequency energy or cryotherapy to destroy abnormal heart tissue causing arrhythmias, restoring normal heart rhythm.
• Mitral Valve Repair/Replacement: Involves repairing or replacing the mitral valve through small incisions, often using robotic assistance for precision.

SURGICAL INTERVENTIONS:

Surgical interventions, such as open-heart surgery in which the chest is opened, and surgery is performed on the heart muscles, valves, arteries, or other heart structures, are critical for treating severe heart and blood vessel diseases that cannot be managed through non-invasive or minimally invasive methods. These interventions are performed by highly skilled cardiovascular surgeons and often involve complex techniques to ensure successful outcomes. While more invasive, these surgeries can significantly improve patient health and longevity, offering life-saving solutions for severe cardiovascular conditions.

SURGICAL CARDIAC REHABILITATION:

Cardiac rehabilitation is a comprehensive program designed to improve the cardiovascular health of individuals recovering from heart conditions or procedures such as heart attacks or heart surgeries. Included in the program are:

• Personalized exercise training
• Heart-healthy lifestyle education
• Counseling to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.

The goal is to help patients regain their strength, prevent the progression of heart disease, and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.