Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 5, 2025
Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
Reversed C-shaped Scanner-guided Ministernotomy for Isolated Aortic Valve Replacement
Olivier Fabre1, Ionut Carjaliu1, Olivier Rebet1
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, Artois, Lens Hospital and Bois Bernard Private Hospital, Ramsay Santé, France.
Insights
This study introduces a novel reversed C-shaped ministernotomy for aortic valve replacement, demonstrating no 30-day mortality and improved thoracic stability in 36 patients. This minimally invasive technique offers a promising alternative for cardiac surgery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Aortic valve replacement is a critical cardiac procedure.
- Minimally invasive approaches aim to reduce surgical trauma and improve recovery.
- Conventional sternotomy carries risks of instability and prolonged recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel reversed C-shaped ministernotomy technique for aortic valve replacement.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of this approach.
- To assess the impact on postoperative thoracic stability.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 36 patients underwent aortic valve replacement using the reversed C-shaped ministernotomy between 2017 and 2019.
- Preoperative computed tomography (CT) guided the surgical approach.
- The sternal incision was made between the first and third or second and fourth intercostal spaces.
Main Results:
- The mean cross-clamp time was 65.2 ± 15.9 minutes.
- The median extubation time was 2 hours.
- No postoperative 30-day mortality was observed.
Conclusions:
- The reversed C-shaped ministernotomy is a safe and effective technique for aortic valve replacement.
- Preserving the upper and lower sternum may enhance postoperative thoracic stability.
- This approach shows potential for improved patient outcomes in cardiac surgery.
Abstract:
Here we present our technique of aortic valve replacement through a reversed C-shaped ministernotomy in 36 patients operated between 2017 and 2019. All patients had a preoperative computed tomography that guided the surgical approach. The sternum was incised at the level of the first and third or the second and fourth intercostal spaces. Cross-clamp time was of 65.2 ± 15.9 minutes. Median extubation time was of 2 hours. There was no postoperative 30-day mortality. Because the upper and lower parts of the sternum remain intact, this approach may improve postoperative thoracic stability.
