Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Techniques
• Aortic Valve Repair/Replacement

Background:

• Aortic valve failure necessitates surgical intervention, with traditional median sternotomy posing significant trauma.
• Rapid functional rehabilitation and improved cosmetic results are key goals in aortic valve surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance immediate surgical outcomes for aortic valve failure.
• To evaluate the efficacy of minimally invasive access for aortic valve prosthesis.
• To compare mini-sternotomy with classic median sternotomy regarding trauma and rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Aortic valve prosthesis was performed in 44 patients utilizing minimally invasive access.
• Specific indications for mini-sternotomy were established.
• Outcomes were compared between mini-sternotomy and median sternotomy approaches.

Main Results:

• Mini-sternotomy proved effective for aortic valve prosthesis in selected patients.
• This approach resulted in minimal surgical trauma compared to median sternotomy.
• Preservation of the thoracic cage frame and improved cosmetic results were observed.

Conclusions:

• Mini-sternotomy is an effective surgical approach for aortic valve failure when indicated.
• The technique offers significant advantages, including reduced trauma and better aesthetics.
• This minimally invasive method facilitates faster patient functional rehabilitation.