From an interview with Scot Schultz, M.D. McLeod Cardiothoracic Surgical Associates

McLeod Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Scot Schultz has successfully treated thousands of heart patients with Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.  However, Dr. Schultz cautions that – after surgical repair – it’s the patient’s responsibility to avoid another surgery:

 

 

Here are a few points from. Dr. Schultz’s video:

• Once you have heart disease, you have it for the rest your life. There’s no real cure for coronary artery disease.  There are ways to relieve the symptoms, minimize heart attack risks and ways to improve the heart function. But once you have established heart disease, you’re going to carry it for the rest your life.
• The good news: There are many medications that can minimize the risk of the disease progressing And if it does progress or if you’re already at an advanced stage, there are several good treatments – perhaps angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting surgery.
• Once the procedures are performed — if the heart is still in good shape and there has not been significant damage — you can lead a normal life.
• However, the responsibility is on the patient. As cardiologists and surgeons, we have helped get you back on your feet. Now to reduce the chances of recurring problems – it’s up to you to change your diet, change your exercise routine, comply with your medications and stop smoking.

Here are some other articles you may find helpful:

Heart Disease: Women ARE Different From Men

Heart Bypass Surgery WHILE the Heart is Beating.

Cardiologists generally handle the initial diagnosis and testing and, if surgery is needed, work with Cardiothoracic Surgeons.

Find a Cardiologist.

Find a Cardiothoracic Surgeon.