Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 23, 2025
08:50
Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
12.1K
Aortic Valve Replacement by a Transaxillary Anterior Minithoracotomy Approach
Hideki Kitamura1, Mototsugu Tamaki1, Yasuhiko Kawaguchi1
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nagoya Heart Center, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|April 22, 2020
Summary
A novel modified transaxillary approach offers a safe, faster surgical option for aortic valve disease, preserving the pectoralis major muscle and providing cosmetic benefits.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Aortic valve disease necessitates surgical intervention, often requiring invasive procedures.
- Conventional surgical approaches can lead to significant muscle disruption and cosmetic concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a modified transaxillary approach for aortic valve disease.
- To achieve exposure comparable to anterior minithoracotomy while preserving the pectoralis major muscle.
Main Methods:
- A modified transaxillary incision is utilized with specific arm positioning (horizontal adduction or 90-degree anterior flexion and adduction).
- This positioning brings the axilla closer to the chest midline, enabling a right anterior thoracotomy through the axilla.
Main Results:
- The modified approach provides equivalent exposure to the anterior minithoracotomy.
- It is demonstrated to be safe and faster than the conventional transaxillary approach.
- The technique offers improved cosmetic outcomes for patients.
Conclusions:
- The modified transaxillary approach is a viable and advantageous alternative for aortic valve surgery.
- This technique enhances patient recovery and aesthetic results compared to traditional methods.
