What to Expect

You'll receive safe, high-quality care during your heart or blood vessel procedure at VHC Health in Arlington and the DC metro area. Look forward to support every step of your treatment.

Before Surgery

Our staff will help you schedule surgery and any other appointments. You’ll meet one‑on‑one with your cardiac surgeon so you can ask questions and learn what will happen.

You’ll also get a phone call from a prescreening nurse to prepare. During the call, you'll:

• Answer questions about your medical history and medications
• Get instructions on how to get ready for surgery
• Learn what to expect on the day of treatment

Day Before Surgery

The day before surgery, you'll register and have a few tests. These may include:

• Blood tests
• Chest X‑ray, which shows pictures of your heart and lungs
• Electrocardiogram (EKG) to check your heart’s activity
• Lab tests

You’ll also meet with someone from the anesthesia team and a physician assistant. They'll review how to prepare and explain what will happen next.

Day of Surgery

When you arrive at VHC Health, a nurse will take you to a private room where you’ll change into a hospital gown. The nurse will ask about your health history. Then, a family member, friend, or loved one may join you.

Learn more about the full surgery process at VHC Health.

Cardiovascular Operating Room (CVROR)

Your surgery may take place in one of our special operating rooms for heart, vascular, and lung treatments. These rooms have advanced equipment to help keep you safe and comfortable.

While you're in surgery, your surgeon will share updates with your loved ones in the waiting area. 

After Surgery

After the procedure, you'll either go to a private room in the cardiovascular intensive care unit (ICU) or to a rapid recovery room. When you're stable, you will move to the cardiovascular step‑down unit for the rest of your hospital stay.

Follow-Up Care

Rely on VHC Health for the attentive care and follow-up services you need to heal. A nurse will call you at home to answer questions, go over your care instructions, and help schedule your follow‑up visits. You'll return to your care team about two weeks after surgery for a check‑up.

Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab

You may benefit from cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. This exercise program helps safely strengthen your heart and lungs after surgery. Your doctor will tell you if this program is a good fit for you.