The Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Olive Hospital, Hyderabad provides advanced surgical care for diseases of the heart, lungs, and chest (thoracic cavity).

The team manages complex cardiac and thoracic conditions using open surgery and minimally invasive techniques, supported by modern operation theatres, cardiac ICU, and multidisciplinary expertise.

The focus is on precision, safety, and improved long-term outcomes, ensuring comprehensive care from diagnosis through post-operative recovery and rehabilitation.

Who is a Cardiothoracic Surgeon?

A Cardiothoracic Surgeon is a specialist trained in performing surgeries on the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other chest organs.

They commonly perform procedures such as:

• Coronary artery bypass surgery
• Heart valve repair or replacement
• Lung surgery for tumors or infections
• Thoracic procedures involving the chest wall and mediastinum

They work closely with cardiologists, pulmonologists, anesthesiologists, and critical care teams to deliver integrated patient care.

Major Conditions Treated under Cardiothoracic Surgery

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

A condition caused by narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, reducing blood flow to the heart. It may present as angina or heart attack and often requires surgical revascularization such as bypass surgery.

Heart Valve Disorders

Includes stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage) of heart valves, leading to impaired blood flow and cardiac function. Advanced cases may require valve repair or replacement to restore normal circulation.

Congenital Heart Diseases

Structural abnormalities of the heart present at birth, such as septal defects or valve malformations. Surgical correction is often required to improve circulation and prevent long-term complications.

Aortic Diseases

Includes conditions such as aortic aneurysm (dilatation) and aortic dissection (tear in the vessel wall), which are life-threatening and require timely surgical repair.

Lung Cancer and Thoracic Tumors

Malignant or benign tumors involving the lungs, mediastinum, or chest wall. Management includes surgical resection, often combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Pleural Diseases

Conditions affecting the pleura, including pleural effusion, pneumothorax, and empyema. These may require drainage procedures or surgical intervention depending on severity.

Esophageal Disorders

Includes cancers, strictures, and motility disorders of the esophagus, leading to difficulty in swallowing and nutrition. Surgical treatment is often required in advanced or refractory cases.

Thoracic Trauma

Injuries to the chest due to accidents, including rib fractures, lung injury, or vascular damage.

Severe cases require emergency surgical intervention to stabilize and repair affected structures.

Infective Conditions

Includes serious infections such as empyema (pus collection in the pleural cavity) or mediastinitis. Management involves antibiotics, drainage, and sometimes surgical debridement.

Treatments & Procedures

Cardiac Surgery

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
Surgical creation of alternate pathways for blood flow to bypass blocked coronary arteries and improve heart function.

Valve Repair and Replacement
Correction of damaged heart valves using repair techniques or prosthetic valve replacement to restore normal blood flow.

Congenital Heart Surgery
Surgical correction of structural heart defects to improve circulation and long-term cardiac function.

Thoracic Surgery

Lung Resection Surgery
Removal of part or whole lung affected by tumors, infections, or damaged tissue.

Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery (VATS)
Video-assisted procedures using small incisions for lung and chest conditions with faster recovery and reduced pain.

Esophageal Surgery
Surgical management of esophageal cancer or structural disorders affecting swallowing and digestion.

Pleural Procedures
Drainage or surgical treatment of fluid, infection, or air in the chest cavity.

Emergency and Advanced Procedures

Aortic Surgery
Repair of aneurysms or dissections of the aorta to prevent life-threatening complications.

Chest Trauma Surgery
Emergency management of injuries to the chest, including lungs, ribs, and major vessels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

When should I consult a cardiothoracic surgeon?
Consult if you have severe heart disease, valve problems, lung tumors, or conditions requiring surgical management after specialist evaluation.

Are all heart conditions treated with surgery?
No. Many conditions are managed medically or through minimally invasive procedures. Surgery is recommended when necessary.

What is the recovery time after heart surgery?
Recovery typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the procedure and patient health.

Is minimally invasive surgery available?
Yes. Many thoracic and selected cardiac procedures can be performed using minimally invasive techniques.

What are the risks of cardiothoracic surgery?
Risks include bleeding, infection, and complications related to heart or lung function, but are minimized with advanced care protocols.

Will I need ICU care after surgery?
Yes, most cardiothoracic surgeries require short-term ICU monitoring for safety and recovery.

Can I return to normal life after surgery?
Yes, with proper rehabilitation and follow-up, most patients return to normal or improved quality of life.