Section 1: Understanding Pain After Heart Surgery
STERNUM
Sternal pain
Sternal pain is the most prominent source for most patients. Your sternum was divided and closed with stainless steel wires. Bone takes 6–8 weeks to heal. During this time expect:
- A deep aching soreness at rest
- Sharp pain with coughing, sneezing, or deep breathing
- Discomfort with any movement engaging your chest muscles
- Clicking or popping sensations — this is the wires and is normal, not dangerous
LEG
Leg pain
Leg pain occurs if veins were harvested. Expect soreness, significant swelling in the first 2–3 weeks, and numbness around the incision that often returns over months.
SHOULDER & BACK
Shoulder and back pain
Shoulder and back pain from operating table positioning typically peaks in week 1 and resolves over 2–3 weeks.
BREATHING
Pleuritic pain
A sharp, catching pain with deep breaths — can indicate minor fluid around the lungs, which is common after heart surgery and usually resolves on its own.