Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

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Summary: Minimally invasive cardiac surgery reaches the heart through limited access (mini-thoracotomy or partial sternotomy) without fully splitting the breastbone, using long instruments and imaging. Often called small-incision heart surgery.

Why choose it?

Compared with full sternotomy, a smaller incision usually means less pain, faster mobilisation and shorter hospital stay (often 3–5 days). Sternum integrity is largely preserved, improving comfort and cosmesis early on.

Suitable patients

Single-valve pathology (mitral or aortic), selected coronary bypass, favourable anatomy without prior full sternotomy.

Caution

Multi-vessel bypass, severe lung disease or complex redo surgery may still require full sternotomy for safety.

Procedure and recovery

Through a lateral incision about 3–6 cm, valve repair/replacement or selected procedures are performed. Light activity often within 2–3 weeks; return to usual life commonly in 4–6 weeks.

FAQ

  • Pain duration: Usually shorter and milder than after classic sternotomy.
  • Everyone? No — risk and anatomy are assessed individually.
  • Scarring? The scar is small and often less visible on the chest.
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