Problems with the heart: Angina; Heart attack; Heart defects from birth (congenital heart disease) Heart failure; Heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias) Other causes: Allergies (such as to mold, dander, or pollen) High altitudes where there is less oxygen in the air; Compression of the chest wall; Dust in the environment; Emotional distress, such as anxiety
The sternotomy is a surgical procedure that often precedes heart surgery, and gives direct access to the heart. It is an incision in the chest that begins at the top of the sternum, which is the bone right below the neckâs hollow, and that runs down the middle of the chest to the end of the sternum.here can be differences in the way a sternotomy is performed. A smaller or modified incision might be shorter in length and not progress the full way down the sternum. People can discuss with doctors what incision is most appropriate.
Craniotomy is any bony opening that is cut into the skull (cranium) to access the brain underneath. There are many types of craniotomies, which are named according to the area of skull to be removed (Fig. 1). Typically the bone flap is replaced. If the bone flap is not replaced, the procedure is called a craniectomy.