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Cardiac operations in patients with hematologic malignancies.
Alison M Fecher1, Thomas J Birdas, David Haybron
1Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine Clinical Campus at the Western Pennsylvania Hospital, 4800 Friendship Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA. afecher@wpahs.org
Summary
Major cardiac operations in patients with hematologic malignancies carry significant risks. While mortality is acceptable, complications like bleeding and infections are common, often requiring reoperation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Hematology
- Oncology
Background:
- Patients with hematologic malignancies often require major cardiac operations.
- These immunocompromised patients may face increased perioperative risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of major cardiac operations in patients with hematologic malignancies.
- To identify common complications and risk factors in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 24 patients with hematologic malignancies undergoing open-heart surgery between 1996 and 2002.
- Data collected included demographics, perioperative details, and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- The study included 24 patients (mean age 68 years) with various hematologic malignancies.
- 50% of patients experienced minor or major complications, with bleeding and infections being most frequent.
- In-hospital mortality was 4.1%, and 3-year survival was 83%.
Conclusions:
- Major cardiac operations can be performed with acceptable mortality in patients with hematologic malignancies.
- Significant morbidity, particularly bleeding and infections leading to reoperations, necessitates careful patient selection.