After surgery, the patient will be transferred to a cardiac intensive care unit, where he or she will be monitored continually. Once the patient is awake and able to breathe independently, the breathing tube and respirator are removed. Painkillers may be administered, blood samples will be taken and electrocardiogram (EKG) monitors will continuously record the electrical activity of the heart. Reports from physicians and patients indicate that painkiller use is lower after a minimally invasive procedure than an invasive one.

Barring any unforeseen complications, an individual will typically spend four or five days in the hospital before being discharged. The cardiologist will discuss further medical treatment, including the use of pain medications, antibiotics and medications that reduce the risk of blood clot formation anticoagulants. The physician will also update any medications that the patient had already been taking.