Minimally invasive cardiac surgery

As its name indicates, it is a minimally invasive procedure. It involves making small incisions in the right or left side of the chest to reach the heart between the ribs rather than cutting through the breastbone (as is done for an open-heart surgery). This procedure is done usually to treat a variety of heart conditions.

The ideal candidate is one who has, a) one to three vessels that need to be by-passed; b) is too high-risk (older age or suffers from COPD) to undergo traditional CABG surgery.c) single valve replacement procedure , d) ASD closure in adult , e) cosmetic purpose when patient doesn’t want a midline scar.

The doctor and his team will work with you to determine if it is an option to treat your condition. This is a complex surgical procedure requiring training and expertise.

Among the newer developments are robot-assisted heart surgery, thoracoscopic surgery and surgery through small incision in the chest. In all types of surgeries, the surgeons reach the heart through small incisions made between the ribs and your chest.

Those who undergo such a surgery usually stay in hospital for three-four days and achieve full recovery in three-four weeks. The risk of complications, which can include infection, excess blood loss, is lower and generally patients have less pain after this.