Frequently Asked Questions
Cardiothoracic surgery refers to surgical procedures that treat conditions of the heart, lungs, and chest. At The Elliot, our focus is on advanced heart surgery, including bypass surgery, valve repair and replacement, and procedures for irregular heart rhythms.
Bypass surgery is a type of open heart surgery used to treat blocked coronary arteries. “Open heart” refers to the surgical approach—typically involving a chest incision—while “bypass” describes the procedure itself, where a vein or artery is used to create a new route for blood flow around a blockage.
Heart surgery recovery time depends on the type of procedure and your overall health. Most patients stay in the hospital for 4–6 days after open heart surgery, with full recovery taking several weeks to a few months. Our care team supports you through every step—including cardiac rehab, medication management, and follow-up visits.
Absolutely. At The Elliot, patients meet with their cardiothoracic surgeon well before surgery to review the care plan, ask questions, and build a relationship. Our program is designed to give you time with your surgeon and care team, so you feel confident, informed, and supported.
Yes, many older adults benefit from heart surgery, especially with today’s advances in surgical techniques and anesthesia. Your care team will evaluate your overall health to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.
Your open heart surgery will be performed at The Elliot Hospital in Manchester, NH, home to our full-service Cardiothoracic Surgery program. Our operating rooms are equipped with advanced technology, and your care is delivered by a highly experienced surgical team, right here in southern New Hampshire—so you don’t have to travel far for expert heart care.
Yes. Most patients benefit from cardiac rehabilitation as part of their recovery after heart surgery. Cardiac rehab is a medically supervised program that includes exercise, education, and support to help you heal, regain strength, and reduce your risk of future heart problems. At The Elliot, we coordinate your rehab through our experienced team to ensure a safe, personalized recovery plan close to home.