Can heart patients take anesthesia safely?

Usually: Most cardiac patients can receive anesthesia safely if done in a careful manner. It is important to evaluate the nature and extent of heart disease before undergoing anesthesia.

Absolutely: However it is still a matter of one's "heart condition". Some heart pts have more serious ailments than others so the risk changes. Many people with previous heart attacks or valve problems have anesthesia without any problems or complications. A complete checkup would be in order if someone with a heart problem was to have surgery.

Somewhat: Talk to your anesthesiologist before your procedure. Anesthetics can cause cardiac depression, so the use on patients with heart problems must be watched closely. We have many different techniques and monitors that can be used on these patients, but it is nice to know before the operation starts. Hope that this helps.