bleeding after heart surgery

[Nini74]

dad has his op today to remove aneurysm and replace valve - they did quite a few things all in all and he was in surgery for quite a few hours. My mum just phoned the hospital and they said that they're going to keep him sedated until the morning now because he's still bleeding in the chest and low blood pressure. I'm quite worried about the bleeding and have looked on-line - but all i can find out is that its a complication of heart surgery, but not how bad it is or how severe a problem it can be. anybody know anything? sorry for vagueness of question and poor spelling & grammar - just in a rush to find out what i can..... thanks

[Gavmacp]

Bleeding is quite normal after this type of surgery. Though it should not be ignored. Best wishes. Xx

[DTCwordfan]

good luck - they will have him under close watch.....so while nothing is ever guaranteed, he will be in good hands

[Pro_sparky]

Hi Nini, I know it's not easy sitting at home worrying but my father had very similar op, Triple bypass,new mechanical aortic valve and pacemaker last year which included similar complications of bleeding. The doctor asked him to cough whilst clamping his chest with his arms but he forgot and ripped stitches internally, they had to drain his chest and keep him sedated for 2 days in intensive care. 4 days later he was out of hospital, what a difference 4 days made. We all had 6 days of worrying in total. Heart units are amazing with some of the most expert,dedicated staff and doctors i have met. He will be out in no time i'm sure. My dad has never felt better. Best wishes.

[Sqad]

It all depends from where he is bleeding.
If it is a minor blood vessel, then this should settle within a few days, but if it is a major blood vessel ( which is unlikely) then the chest will have to be re-opened. The monitoring of his vital signs (BP ECG etc) will determine the extent of the bleed.

He will be monitored and routine and well established protocols will be followed.