Patient's question:
Is the surgery for constrictive pericarditis major? How good is the postoperative effect? My cousin had chest pain symptoms again a few days ago, but he was fine after a few more days. At first, I didn't pay much attention, but later both his legs swelled, his blood pressure dropped significantly, and his heart was beating very fast. That's when they discovered this disease.Doctor's answer:
Early cardiac surgery for chronic constrictive pericarditis can bring satisfactory results to most patients, while a very small number of patients with prolonged disease course may experience recurrent myocardial atrophy and cardiogenic cirrhosis, leading to a poor prognosis. It is essential to actively treat acute pericarditis and the underlying disease to prevent the recurrence of chronic constrictive pericarditis. Once this condition recurs, a combination of rest and appropriate walking is recommended. Severe cases require bed rest.