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Minimal-access "J" or "j" sternotomy for valvular, aortic, and coronary operations or reoperations

L G Svensson1

  • 1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Lahey Hitchcock Clinic, Burlington, MA 01805, USA.

The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|December 5, 1997
PubMed

Insights

A J-sternal incision offers a valuable alternative for complex heart surgeries when minimal-access techniques are challenging. This approach proved safe and effective in 30 patients undergoing various aortic, valvular, and coronary procedures.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Surgical Incision Techniques

Background:

  • Minimal-access cardiac surgery is preferred but not always feasible for complex cases.
  • Reoperations and specific procedures pose challenges for standard sternotomy or minimal-access approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the utility and safety of a "J" or "j" sternal incision.
  • To assess its application in complex cardiac operations and reoperations where minimal-access surgery is difficult.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective review of 30 patients undergoing cardiac surgery using a "J" or "j" sternal incision.
  • The incision extends from the first interspace/sternal notch to the right fourth intercostal space.
  • Procedures included valve operations, coronary artery bypass, aortic root repair, and septal defect repair.

Main Results:

  • The "J" sternal incision was successfully applied in 30 diverse cardiac procedures.
  • No complications directly related to the J-sternal incision were reported.
  • The approach was utilized for both primary operations and reoperations.

Conclusions:

  • The "J" or "j" sternal incision is a safe and effective alternative for complex cardiac surgeries.
  • It provides a viable option when standard minimal-access techniques are not suitable.
  • This approach expands surgical possibilities for challenging aortic, valvular, and coronary procedures.

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