[How to do: initial experiences with a new device in minimally invasive heart surgery]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Device Technology

Context:

• Minimally invasive cardiac surgery requires specialized techniques.
• Maintaining a clear surgical field during coronary artery anastomosis under beating heart conditions is challenging.
• Blood in the coronary artery can obscure the surgical site.

Purpose:

• To introduce and evaluate the VisoFlo system for enhancing visualization during cardiac surgery.
• To assess the efficacy of VisoFlo in providing a clear view of the anastomosis site.
• To determine if VisoFlo impacts surgical workflow.

Summary:

• The VisoFlo system utilizes a column of air to clear the surgical field and a controllable mist to prevent graft desiccation.
• The system was tested in 45 patients undergoing beating heart coronary artery bypass graft surgery and 65 patients undergoing standard coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
• Results indicate the VisoFlo system is user-friendly and provides an unobstructed view of the anastomosis site without hindering surgical procedures.

Impact:

• VisoFlo has the potential to improve surgical precision and safety in minimally invasive cardiac procedures.
• Enhanced visualization may lead to reduced operating times and improved patient recovery.
• The system offers a practical solution to a common challenge in coronary artery bypass graft surgery.