Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026
A Preclinical Model of Orthotopic Heart Transplantation in Bama Miniature Pigs Using Biatrial Technique
Published on: June 13, 2025
Feasibility of transapical cardioscopic surgery in a pig model
Theo Kofidis1, Thang Duc Vu, Shripad N Pal
1Department of Surgery, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
Background And Aim:
We introduced a cardioscopic surgical platform for a wide range of cardiac procedures, to address various intracardiac pathologies, through the left ventricular (LV) apex on the arrested heart. The method involves endoscopic access into the LV cavity; hence the term "transapical cardioscopic surgery (TACS)."
Methods:
For this proof-of-concept study, we obtained transapical access to the left ventricle in five pigs. A right minithoracotomy was used for cannulation and cardiopulmonary bypass A purse string-secured incision at the apex allows for introduction of a self-made intracavitary expander, 5 mm steerable-tip endoscopic camera as well as 5 and 3 mm endoscopic instruments.
Results:
The trans-apical approach provided a good exposure and an adequate surgical field, which allowed us to perform mitral valve repair, mitral valve replacement, and aortic valve replacement. This approach also enabled excellent access and visualization for atrial ablation and intra-aortic procedures. All animals were rewarmed and weaned off bypass.
Conclusions:
The proposed transapical cardioscopic platform is feasible for major intra-cardiac procedures.
More Related Videos
07:09A Surgical Model of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction in Tibetan Minipigs
Published on: February 18, 2022
06:33Intubation, Central Venous Catheter, and Arterial Line Placement in Swine for Translational Research in Abdominal Transplantation Surgery
Published on: February 3, 2023