Watch: in my words
What is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and what does a myectomy do?
Myectomy, alcohol septal ablation or newer medicines — how I think about the options
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Who needs a myectomy
Myectomy is usually recommended when HCM symptoms persist despite medication, or when the thickening into the left ventricle is severe. It’s also considered for women with HCM who want to become pregnant, even without severe symptoms.
What to expect
The operation takes about three to four hours. Recovery starts in the ICU, walking with a physical therapist begins around 48 hours after surgery, and most people go home in fewer than five days. Symptom relief comes over days to weeks, and energy usually returns to normal within a few weeks.
94%
had symptom improvement after surgery in one study
Fewer than 5 days
typical hospital stay
Sources for this section: Cleveland Clinic — Septal myectomy
Common questions
When are medicines enough?
Many people with HCM are managed with medicines. Myectomy is usually recommended when symptoms persist despite them or the obstruction is severe.
What tests will I need before surgery?
Typically blood tests, an echocardiogram, an EKG, a chest X-ray, a cardiac MRI and a cardiac catheterization.
What are the risks?
Myectomy is generally low-risk. Possible complications include fluid around the heart or lungs, atrial fibrillation and heart block (a disruption of the heart’s electrical signals that can require a pacemaker). Risk is higher with other heart conditions, tobacco use, or age over 65.
I’m thinking about pregnancy — does that change the timing?
It can. Myectomy is considered for women with HCM who want to become pregnant, even without severe symptoms. Talk with us and your cardiologist before you plan a pregnancy.
Should my family be screened for HCM?
HCM can run in families. Northwestern Medicine recommends that adult first-degree relatives — parents, siblings and children — see a physician for an ECG and echocardiogram, repeated every five years. If your genetic mutation is identified, relatives can be tested with a blood sample.
