Of cardiovascular diseases, which are today’s endemic diseases, heart attacks account for one- third of the total mortality rate in Hungary. Unfortunately, heart attacks mainly affect the active male population in the 40-50 age bracket and the costs of medical attention and rehabilitation together with the results of the patients’ severely impaired working capacity entails an additional burden on everyone: the family, society and the state.

However, the disease can be prevented: regular monitoring can identify those more at risk, and a change in life-style can halt any aggravation of the problem. In some cases the process can be reversed. Any impairment of the vascular system can be identified in the symptom-free period, which, apart from an appropriate intervention, could be a life-saver. One type of intervention (heart catheterisation) can be particularly helpful in these cases. An examination may help not only to identify the problem but to cure it also. Likewise, heart operations can also help in solving more serious abnormalities.

However, most people know little about such operations, about the pre- and post-operative conditions, possible outcomes and solutions. The unknown invariably arouses fear and distress, and this itself increases the strain on us, perhaps inducing some serious stress reaction wit the effect of significantly worsening the outcome of the operation.
We can help you in this since our heart surgeon colleague can offer useful and practical advice and can also be present at the operation. A familiar face and a relationship based on trust are always reassuring. He can also provide all the necessary post-operative nursing care.