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Mini-Sternotomy
Most cardiac operations today are performed through a sternotomy, which involves cutting through the entire sternum (breastbone). Minimally invasive heart surgery encompasses a variety of procedures performed through incisions that are substantially smaller and less traumatic than the standard sternotomy. Minimally invasive mini-sternotomy incisions measure about 4 to 5 inches compared to 8 to 10 inches for sternotomy incisions. Surgery on the heart is performed in a standard fashion under direct vision during a mini-sternotomy and allows the surgeon to gain access to the heart in order to surgically treat mitral regurgitation or coronary artery disease.
The benefits of a mini-thoracotomy procedure include:
- Smaller incisions and scars
- Reduced risk of infection
- Less post-operative pain
- Less blood loss
- Shorter length of stay in the hospital (3 to 5 days vs. to 5 to 7 days for standard open procedures).
- Fewer physical restrictions compared to standard open procedures.
- Shorter recovery time (2 to 4 weeks vs. 6 to 8 weeks for standard open procedures).
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