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Comparing Aortic Valve Replacement through Right Anterolateral Thoracotomy with Median Sternotomy
Abdul Gani Ahangar1, Aakib Hamid Charag1, Mohd Lateef Wani1
1Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Soura, Kashmir, India.
International Cardiovascular Research Journal
|April 24, 2014
Summary
Right anterolateral thoracotomy offers a less invasive approach for aortic valve replacement (AVR), showing improved cosmetic outcomes and comparable safety to traditional median sternotomy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is commonly performed via median sternotomy.
- Minimally invasive techniques are increasingly explored for AVR.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the outcomes of right anterolateral thoracotomy versus median sternotomy for AVR.
- To evaluate differences in surgical parameters and patient satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 60 patients undergoing AVR.
- Thirty patients received AVR via right anterolateral thoracotomy (study group).
- Thirty patients received AVR via median sternotomy (control group).
Main Results:
- The right anterolateral thoracotomy group had significantly shorter incisions (7.8 cm vs. 18.7 cm).
- Bypass time, aortic cross-clamp time, and operating time were comparable between groups.
- Patient satisfaction with cosmetic results was higher in the thoracotomy group (73.3% vs. 50%).
Conclusions:
- Right anterolateral thoracotomy is a safe and effective alternative for AVR.
- This approach offers superior cosmetic results, particularly for female patients.
- The procedure is technically feasible and maintains patient security.
