How long is recovery after open heart surgery on an infant?

Heart bypass surgery recovery?

• what is the expected recovery time after heart bypass surgery? I know it takes months to get close to normal, but when usually does the patient have less pain and able to do more?

• Answer:

  Sutures are removed from the chest prior to discharge and from the leg (if the saphenous vein is used) after 7 to 10 days. Patients are advised to wear elastic support stockings during the day for the first four to six weeks after surgery and to keep their leg elevated when sitting. This swelling usually resolves after about six to eight weeks. Healing of the breastbone takes about six weeks and is the primary limitation in recovering from CABG surgery. Patients are advised not to lift anything more than 10 pounds or perform heavy exertion during this healing period. They are also advised not to drive for the first four weeks to avoid any injury to the chest. Return to work usually occurs after the six week recovery, but may be much sooner for non-strenuous employment.