How to care for babies after congenital heart disease surgery

After an infant undergoes congenital heart disease surgery, comprehensive follow-up care is the key to ensuring recovery, including diet adjustment, wound care, appropriate activities and regular check-ups. Parents need to strictly follow the doctor's advice and closely observe the child's condition. If there are any abnormalities, seek medical attention in a timely manner.

1) Wound care:

Postoperative wound care is crucial. The wound should be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. In the first few weeks after surgery, parents should avoid exposing the wound to water. They can use sterile gauze recommended by the doctor to bandage the wound, change it every day, and carefully observe for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, exudation or odor. If any abnormality is found, the doctor should be contacted immediately. The baby should not engage in activities that will rub the wound, such as sleeping on the stomach or crawling, until the wound is completely healed.

2) Diet adjustment:

Babies after surgery need nutritional support to help their bodies recover. It is recommended to adopt a diet that is easily digestible, high in protein, high in vitamins, and not too greasy. Breastfeeding is the best choice. If complementary foods have been added, iron-rich foods such as egg yolks and spinach puree can be selected. At the same time, pay attention to not feeding too quickly each time to avoid discomfort caused by swallowing too much air. Also pay attention to choking or feeding difficulties.

3) Activities and rest:

The baby's activity should be limited after surgery, but it cannot be completely prohibited. Try to reduce the baby's violent movements such as rolling and grasping within 1-2 weeks after surgery. Let the baby lie flat or hold him/her to reduce the pressure on the heart and chest. It is also necessary to ensure that the baby has enough sleep every day and choose a soft and breathable mattress to support recovery.

4) Regular review:

For babies who have undergone surgery for congenital heart disease, follow-up examinations are an important part of the recovery process. Follow-up examinations usually include chest X-rays, cardiac ultrasound, and electrocardiograms, so that doctors can monitor the baby's heart function and recovery from surgery. Parents need to arrange follow-up examinations according to the doctor's instructions, usually one month, three months, six months, and one year after surgery.

5) Be alert to abnormal symptoms:

Parents should also pay attention to whether the baby has abnormal conditions such as pale face, difficulty breathing, listlessness, fast or slow heartbeat, etc. Once these signs are found, they need to seek medical attention immediately to ensure that emergency situations can be treated in a timely manner.

Postoperative care for congenital heart disease requires parents to be attentive, cautious and fully communicate with medical staff. Adherence to diet, wound care, appropriate activities and regular check-ups can greatly improve the effectiveness of surgical treatment and help your baby recover as soon as possible. If you encounter uncertain situations, please consult a doctor in a timely manner, avoid taking medication or trying to treat it privately, and ensure the safe growth of your child.