Cardiac surgery and sports
The topic might seem a contradiction, how can it be possible to engage in intense sport with an operated heart? It is possible, but not for everyone and not in each case. The topic is complex and requires a differentiated approach. The major components of the equation are the following:
- Nature of the disease
- Functional condition of the heart
- Response of the heart and of the whole cardiovascular system to the operation
- Presence of any residual or other disease with particular relevance to intense sport
- Attitude of the patient and his/her family
- Sports history of the patient
Time for a new training model in cardiac surgery
Traditionally, technical skills in surgery are taught by the “apprentice model”: trainee surgeons learn under supervision in the operating room, by performing portions of or complete real operations on real patients.