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Updated: Feb 10, 2026

Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
Analysis of Minimally Invasive Left Thoracotomy HVAD Implantation - A Single-Center Experience
D Reichart1, C F Brand2, A M Bernhardt2
1Department of General and Interventional Cardiology, University Heart Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
Minimally invasive left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation via lateral thoracotomy shows comparable survival to sternotomy. This approach may reduce complications like infections and is a viable option, especially for bridge-to-transplant candidates.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Mechanical Circulatory Support
Background:
- Minimally invasive left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation may reduce complications associated with traditional sternotomy.
- This study evaluates the initial outcomes of a minimally invasive LVAD technique using lateral thoracotomy (LT).
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the outcomes of LVAD implantation using a minimally invasive lateral thoracotomy approach versus a conventional median sternotomy.
- To assess the feasibility and safety of the minimally invasive LVAD technique.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 70 HeartWare LVAD implantations (22 LT, 48 sternotomy).
- Comparison of perioperative survival, adverse events, and complications between the LT and sternotomy groups.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in survival between LT and sternotomy groups (p=0.43).
- The LT group had fewer LVAD-related infections (p=0.04) and no wound dehiscence.
- LT patients without temporary right ventricular assist device (tRVAD) showed improved survival (p=0.02).
Conclusions:
- Minimally invasive LVAD implantation via lateral thoracotomy is a feasible alternative.
- This approach can potentially reduce complications and is particularly suitable for bridge-to-transplant patients.
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