Hexagonal Six-point Traction Technique for Optimum Surgical Exposure of the Subaortic Region

Surgery of the subaortic region is challenging because of spatial limitations. We present our technique of enhanced exposure of this region that allows for a smooth, expeditious, and safe repair of such lesions as subaortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, subaortic ventricular septal defects, and related pathologies. Using a hexagonal 6-point traction technique, approximately 84% of the cross-sectional area of the aortic root is made available to the surgeon for a transaortic subaortic resection keeping the use of retractors to a minimum. The technique ensures protection of the aortic valve leaflets and the enhanced exposure may contribute to improved surgical outcomes.