The MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network showcases trusted, easy-to-use health and wellness resources from Alberta Health Services and Alberta-based partner organizations. The network is led by MyHealth.Alberta.ca, Alberta’s source for consumer health information. Our partners are committed to helping Albertans better manage their health and wellbeing. Health experts across Alberta make sure that the information on these sites is accurate and up-to-date. Our partners include
Main Content
Heart Surgery
Your Heart and Surgery
About Your Heart
Heart Surgery Overview
While You Wait
Waiting For Surgery
When to Call Your Family Doctor
Getting Closer
Getting Ready for Surgery
The Night Before Surgery
Day of Surgery
The Surgery
After Surgery
Care After Surgery
Activity After Surgery
Going Home
Getting Ready to Go Home
Recovering at Home
When to Call Your Doctor
Recovery
Exercises
Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation
Resources
GET HELP
The heart is a hollow muscular organ about the size of a closed fist. It’s in the centre of your chest, behind the breastbone. Each heartbeat sends blood that’s rich in oxygen and nutrients to all parts of your body.
The heart has 2 sides and 4 chambers—2 chambers on the right and 2 on the left. The upper chambers are called atria and the lower chambers are called ventricles.
The heart muscle receives its blood, oxygen, and nutrients from the coronary arteries. The heart needs a constant supply of oxygen to work well. The main coronary arteries (the left main artery and the right coronary artery) divide into smaller vessels to provide oxygen to all areas of the heart.
There are 2 main coronary arteries, the left and the right.
Left main artery: The left main artery divides into 2 main branches:
Right main artery:The right coronary artery brings blood to the right side and back of the heart.
Go to Top