Septal Myectomy

Surgically removing excess heart muscle

By removing a portion of overgrown muscle between the lower chambers of the heart, we can create more space for blood to flow through the heart.

If you have been diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, your doctor may recommend septal myectomy if medication does not relieve symptoms or if you are not a candidate for a less-invasive treatment such as septal alcohol ablation. During the procedure, a portion of overgrown muscle between the lower chambers of the heart is removed, creating more space for blood to flow.

What to expect during a septal myectomy

You will be asked not to eat or drink before the procedure. Ask your doctor if you should continue to take any regular medications. A small amount of hair may be shaved on your chest if necessary.

You will be placed under general anesthesia and will not feel or remember the procedure. You may have a tube placed in your throat to breathe for you. Your surgeon will make a incision in your chest and divide your breastbone to access your heart. You will be connected to a heart-lung bypass machine that will pump your blood and allow your heart to stay still and clear of blood during the procedure.

Your surgeon will remove a small amount of the thick portion of the septal muscle, wire your breastbone back together and close the incision. You may need to stay in the hospital for several days to recover and work with a cardiac rehabilitation specialist.

Conditions

Tests