Open Heart Surgery
The Open Heart Surgery at Global Medical Complex (GMC) is one of the most advanced cardiac surgical units in Afghanistan. Our facility is fully equipped to perform a wide range of complex adult and pediatric open-heart procedures using international standards of safety, precision, and post-operative care.
This department plays a central role in the GMC Heart Program and is supported by our modern operating theatres, dedicated cardiac anesthesia team, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) technologists, and a specialized Cardiac Surgical ICU (S.ICU).
Key Surgical Services:
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): Both on-pump and off-pump techniques to treat severe coronary artery disease.
- Valve Surgery: Repair and replacement of aortic, mitral, and tricuspid valves using mechanical or bioprosthetic valves.
- Congenital Heart Defect Repair: Pediatric and adult procedures such as ASD/VSD closure, tetralogy of Fallot correction, and arterial switch operation.
- Aortic Surgery: Management of aortic aneurysms, dissections, and root replacements.
- Redo & High-Risk Surgeries: Surgical care for patients with prior heart procedures or multiple comorbidities.
Infrastructure & Technology:
- Three fully equipped, modular cardiac operating theatres with laminar airflow
- Advanced cardiopulmonary bypass (heart-lung) machines and intraoperative TEE (transesophageal echocardiography)
- Modern perfusion and blood-conservation technologies for optimal surgical outcomes
- Seamless coordination with the Cath Lab and ICU for hybrid procedures and emergency interventions
Post-Operative Care:
- Dedicated Cardiac Surgical ICU (S.ICU) with invasive monitoring, mechanical ventilation, and 1:1 nurse-to-patient ratio for the first 24 hours
- Early extubation and enhanced recovery protocols
- Daily rounds by cardiothoracic surgeons, intensivists, physiotherapists, and pharmacists
Team Expertise:
- Internationally trained cardiothoracic surgeons with experience in over 1000+ complex surgeries
- Dedicated team of cardiac anesthesiologists, perfusionists, surgical assistants, and ICU nurses
- Multidisciplinary Heart Team approach for pre-operative evaluation and post-op decision-making
Patient-Centered Care:
- Individualized risk assessment and surgical planning
- Comprehensive family counseling and education before and after surgery
- Safe transfer protocols and follow-up clinics for rehabilitation and long-term care
The Open Heart Surgery program at GMC is a national leader in cardiac surgery, combining clinical excellence with cutting-edge technology. Whether it’s lifesaving adult bypass surgery or delicate congenital heart repairs in children, GMC provides the most advanced care available in the region — right here in Afghanistan.