Minimally Invasive, Maximally Effective: Anesthetic Management for Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery

Endoscopic cardiac surgery is associated with faster recovery, shorter hospital stays, less blood loss, fewer postoperative infections, and better cosmetic results. Although not suitable for every patient, minimally invasive cardiac surgery, including endoscopic cardiac surgery, may demonstrate advantages over standard sternotomy-based approaches. On the other hand, the steep learning curve and specific setup present challenges to surgeons and anesthesiologists. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the anesthetic challenges encountered in the perioperative management of patients undergoing endoscopic cardiac surgery.