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Background: Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) has been increasingly adopted worldwide as an alternative to conventional sternotomy, especially for young patients. The remarkable results gained by MIMVS have encouraged its application in more complex and fragile patients, such as the elderly, though results in this subgroup remain controversial. It is the aim of this study to assess the postoperative outcomes of patients older than 75 years old undergoing MIMVS, and to compare these results to those of younger patients. Methods: The data of all patients undergoing MIMVS between 2015 and 2022 were retrospectively collected at seven high-volume cardiac surgery centers. Patients were divided into two age-based groups: the young (<65 years old) and the elderly (>75 years old). A propensity score (PS) matching analysis obtained two comparable groups. Postoperative outcomes were assessed in both the unmatched and PS-matched populations. Results: Out of 1113 patients undergoing MIMVS, 524 were young and 279 were elderly. Elderly patients were more commonly affected by multiple comorbidities, with a higher EuroSCORE II (4.6 ± 5.5% vs. 1.6 ± 3.3%, p < 0.001). There was no difference in postoperative mortality, though the elderly had a greater incidence of postoperative complications, such as re-exploration for bleeding, stroke, reintubation, and a need for hemodialysis and blood transfusions. After PS matching, 119 pairs of young and elderly patients with similar risk profiles (EuroSCORE II 2.5 ± 4.7% vs. 2.7 ± 3.2%, p = 0.7) were compared, and no differences in all postoperative outcomes were found. Conclusions: Adequately selected elderly patients can report hospital outcomes similar to young patients after MIMVS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carney complex is a rare syndrome characterized by skin pigmentation, endocrine disorders, and myxomas. It is particularly notorious for its tendency to exhibit aggressive cardiac myxomas. Herein, we present a case of a juvenile female patient diagnosed with Carney complex who underwent a right lateral mini-thoracotomy. Case presentation: A 13-year-old girl presented with sudden-onset left hemiplegia and dysarthria. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple areas of restricted diffusion. Echocardiography identified a tumor in the left atrium, suspected to be related to Carney complex based on her medical history and physical examination findings. Surgery was performed via right lateral mini-thoracotomy, which minimized the risk of embolism and ensured a cosmetically favorable outcome. The left atrial wall defect was repaired with autologous pericardium. At 3 years postoperatively, follow-up echocardiography indicated no tumor recurrence and normal cardiac function. Conclusions: Ongoing follow-ups are essential due to the aggressive nature of the Carney complex and its high recurrence rates. Right lateral mini-thoracotomy offers the advantage of avoiding re-sternotomy and minimizing adhesion dissection, making it the optimal choice for this case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resumen: Objetivos: La enfermedad de la válvula tricúspide ha ido en constante aumento generando preocupación la morbimortalidad asociada a la cirugía cuando se realiza a través de esternotomía convencional. En este contexto, se pretenden exponer las ventajas clínicas y estéticas de la cirugía tricuspídea aislada mediante minitoracotomía anterior derecha sin clampaje aórtico. Material y métodos: Analizamos de forma retrospectiva entre junio del 2014 y octubre del 2023 una serie de 29 pacientes de nuestro centro intervenidos de cirugía tricúspide aislada mínimamente invasiva. La intervención se realizó por minitoracotomía anterior derecha sin exclusión de cavas y sin clampaje aórtico a corazón latiendo asistida por videotoracoscopia 3D. Se administró levosimendán preoperatorio en pacientes con hipertensión pulmonar severa y/o disfunción ventricular derecha. Resultados: Se realizaron 28 sustituciones tricuspídeas y una reparación. La edad media de los pacientes fue de 63 años (DE: 8 años). Dieciocho pacientes (62%) tenían cirugía cardíaca previa. Veintidós pacientes (75,8%) tenían hipertensión pulmonar severa y 12 (41,3%) disfunción ventricular derecha. El Euroscore II medio fue de 4,10%. La mortalidad hospitalaria fue del 3,4% (un paciente). El tiempo medio de circulación extracorpórea fue de 109 min (DE: 41 min). Hubo una reoperación por sagrado y un implante de marcapasos definitivo (3,4%). La necesidad de terapia de depuración extrarrenal temporal fue del 21% (6 pacientes). La mediana de estancia hospitalaria fue de 7 días. Conclusiones: La cirugía tricúspide aislada mínimamente invasiva es una técnica segura como tratamiento definitivo de la valvulopatía tricúspide aislada con una baja tasa de morbimortalidad. Abstract: Background: Tricuspid valve disease has been steadily increasing, raising concerns about the morbidity and mortality associated with surgery when performed via conventional sternotomy. In this context, the clinical and aesthetic advantages of isolated tricuspid surgery by right anterior mini-thoracotomy without aortic clamping are presented. Material and methods: A case series of 29 patients who underwent minimally invasive isolated tricuspid valve surgery in our center, from 2014 to 2023, have been studied retrospectively. The operation was performed by right anterior mini-thoracotomy without caval exclusion and without aortic clamping to a beating heart assisted by 3 D videothoracoscopy. Preoperative levosimendan was administered in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension and/or right ventricular dysfunction. Results: Twenty-eight tricuspid valve replacement and one repair were performed. Average patients age was 63 years old (SD 8 years old). 18 patients (62%) had previous cardiac surgery. 22 patients (75,8%) had severe pulmonary hypertension and 12 (41,3%) had right ventricule disfunction. Average EuroSCORE II was 4,10%. In-hospital mortality was 3,4% (one patient). The average extracorporeal circulation was 109 (SD 41 minutes). There was a reoperation due bleeding and a permanent pacemaker implantation (3,4%). Temporary renal replacement therapy was required in 21% (6 patients). The median length of hospital stay was 7 days. Conclusions: Minimally invasive isolated tricuspid valve surgery is a safe technique as a definitive treatment of isolated tricuspid valve disease with a low mortality and morbidity.

Introduction Congenital VSDs require early correction to avoid serious complications. For many years, the gold standard was the median longitudinal sternotomy, but given the gross cosmetic effect, miniapproaches were developed, but right anterior mini-thoracotomies gained popularity. We modified the method of anterior right-sided minithorcatomy by preserving a. et v. mammaria interna and the purpose of the study was to evaluate its effectiveness. Material and Methods The design of the study was prospective with historical control. A total of 82 patients who underwent VSD correction were included in the study. All patients were divided into three groups: group 1 operated by median sternotomy (MS) - 15 patients; Group 2 operated by right anterior minithoracotomy (RAMT) - 38 patients; and the 3rd main group operated on by right antero-lateral thoracotomy (RLMT) with preservation of the artery and vein of the internal mammary artery - 29 patients. Results We revealed the older age in RAMT group. Cardio pulmonary bypasstime and total operation time were shorter in RLMT group, but the time of aortic cross-clamping is shorter than in RAMT group, but longer than in MS group. The length of the skin incision is also the shortest in RLMT group, which enhances the cosmetic effect. Also there were revealed a shorter mechanical lung ventilation time and ICU stay, moreover we observed reduced amount of drainages, as well as quick discharge home. Conclusion Therefore, improved and modificated right antero-lateral minithoracotomy method with preserving a et v mammaria interna is feasible, has a good cosmetic effect, and short hospitalization stay, but should perform with careful preparation of the entire cardiac team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Minimally invasive approaches like mini-thoracotomy and mini-sternotomy for Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) showed impressive outcomes. However, their advantages for obese patients are questionable. We aimed in this network meta-analysis to compare three surgical approaches: Full sternotomy (FS), Mini-sternotomy (MS), and Mini-thoracotomy (MT) for obese patients undergoing AVR. Methods We followed the PRISMA extension for this network meta-analysis. PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane searched through March 2023 for relevant articles. The analysis was performed using R version 4.2.3. Results Out of 344, 8 articles met the criteria with 1392 patients. The main outcomes assessed were perioperative mortality, re-exploration, atrial fibrillation, renal failure, ICU stay, hospital stay, cross-clamp time, and bypass time. In favor of MS, the length of ICU stay and hospital stay was significantly lower than for FS [MD -0.84, 95%CI (-1.26; -0.43)], and [MD -2.56, 95%CI (-3.90; -1.22)], respectively. Regarding peri-operative mortality, FS showed a significantly higher risk compared to MS [RR 2.28, 95%CI (1.01;5.16)]. Also, patients who underwent minimally invasive approaches; MT and MS, required less need of re-exploration compared to FS [RR 0.10, 95%CI (0.02;0.45)], and [RR 0.33, 95%CI (0.14;0.79)], respectively. However, Intraoperative timings; including aortic cross-clamp, and cardiopulmonary bypass time, were significantly lower with FS than for MS [MD -9.16, 95%CI (-1.88; -16.45)], [MD -9.61, 95%CI (-18.64; -0.59)], respectively. Conclusion Our network meta-analysis shows that minimally invasive approaches offer some advantages for obese patients undergoing AVR over full sternotomy. Suggesting that these approaches might be considered more beneficial alternatives for obese patients undergoing AVR.

A 71-year-old man with dilated cardiomyopathy without clinical complaints revealed a suspicious finding in checkup. After a multimodality cardiac imaging, the suspicion of a malignant primary cardiac tumor in the left ventricle was substantiated and the patient underwent minimally-invasive cardiac surgery for tumor resection. Postoperative chemotherapy with multiple cycles of liposomal doxorubicin was established and supported by proton beam radiotherapy. Two-year follow-up revealed no disease recurrence.

IntroductionThe minimally invasive cardiac surgery off-pump coronary artery bypass (MICSOPCAB) is technically difficult; therefore, previous studies have indicated that MICSOPCAB should be contraindicated in patients with impaired left ventricular (LV) function. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of MICSOPCAB in patients with impaired LV function.MethodsThe 226 patients underwent MICSOPCAB between August 2017 and September 2022. Our study defined impaired LV function as ejection fraction (EF) in echocardiography 40% or less. The patients were divided into Low EF group (n = 39) and Normal EF group (n = 187).ResultsThe Low EF group was in a more critical preoperative condition than Normal EF group (41.0% in the Low EF group vs. 14.4% in the Normal EF group; p

BackgroundRobotic mitral repair is generally performed with four intercostal trocars and a minithoracotomy. We describe our technique and results with a totally-thoracoscopic closed chest approach using a 12 mm valveless trocar as “working port”, without a minithoracotomy. We compared our results with this technique with a control group of robotic mitral repairs performed earlier with a minithoracotomy.MethodsReview of all patients with degenerative mitral valve disease who underwent robotic mitral valve repair surgery since December 2019 (n = 110). Patients with concomitant procedures (n = 8) were excluded. The remaining 102 patients were divided in two groups, depending on the approach used, minithoracotomy (n = 63) and totally thoracoscopic (n = 39).ResultsThere were no significant differences between groups regarding preoperative characteristics. All procedures were completed robotically as planned, and repair rate was 100%. The minithoracotomy group showed a higher percentage of leaflet resections (17.9% vs. 38.7%; p = 0.03). All surgical times were significatively reduced in the totally thoracoscopic group: Cardiopulmonary bypass (97 vs. 115 min, p = 0.0008), ischemic time (67 vs. 80 min, p = 0.0013) and total surgical time (185 vs. 225 min; p

Background: Minimally invasive approaches like mini-thoracotomy and mini-sternotomy for Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) showed impressive outcomes. However, their advantages for obese patients are questionable. We aimed in this network meta-analysis to compare three surgical approaches: Full sternotomy (FS), Mini-sternotomy (MS), and Mini-thoracotomy (MT) for obese patients undergoing AVR. Methods: We followed the PRISMA extension for this network meta-analysis. PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane searched through March 2023 for relevant articles. The analysis was performed using R version 4.2.3. Results: Out of 344, 8 articles met the criteria with 1392 patients. The main outcomes assessed were perioperative mortality, re-exploration, atrial fibrillation, renal failure, ICU stay, hospital stay, cross-clamp time, and bypass time. In favor of MS, the length of ICU stay and hospital stay was significantly lower than for FS [MD -0.84, 95%CI (-1.26; -0.43)], and [MD -2.56, 95%CI (-3.90; -1.22)], respectively. Regarding peri-operative mortality, FS showed a significantly higher risk compared to MS [RR 2.28, 95%CI (1.01;5.16)]. Also, patients who underwent minimally invasive approaches; MT and MS, required less need of re-exploration compared to FS [RR 0.10, 95%CI (0.02;0.45)], and [RR 0.33, 95%CI (0.14;0.79)], respectively. However, Intraoperative timings; including aortic cross-clamp, and cardiopulmonary bypass time, were significantly lower with FS than for MS [MD -9.16, 95%CI (-1.88; -16.45)], [MD -9.61, 95%CI (-18.64; -0.59)], respectively. Conclusion: Our network meta-analysis shows that minimally invasive approaches offer some advantages for obese patients undergoing AVR over full sternotomy. Suggesting that these approaches might be considered more beneficial alternatives for obese patients undergoing AVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Minimally invasive surgery via right mini-thoracotomy has become the standard of care for the treatment of mitral valve disease worldwide, particularly at high-volume centers. In recent years, the spectrum of indications has progressively shifted and extended to fragile and higher-risk patients, also addressing more complex mitral valve disease and ultimately including patients with native or prosthetic infective endocarditis. The rationale for the adoption of the minimally invasive approach is to minimize surgical trauma, promote an earlier postoperative recovery, and reduce the incidence of surgical wound infection and other nosocomial infections. The aim of this retrospective observational study is to evaluate the effectiveness and the early and late outcome in patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery for mitral valve infective endocarditis. Methods. Prospectively collected data regarding minimally invasive surgery in patients with mitral valve infective endocarditis were entered into a dedicated database for the period between January 2007 and December 2022 and retrospectively analyzed. All comers during the study period underwent a preoperative evaluation based on their clinical history and anatomy for the allocation to the most appropriate surgical strategy. The selection of the mini-thoracotomy approach was primarily driven by a thorough transthoracic and especially transesophageal echocardiographic evaluation, coupled with total body and vascular imaging. Results. During the study period, 92 patients underwent right mini-thoracotomy to treat native (80/92, 87%) or prosthetic (12/92, 13%) mitral valve endocarditis at our institution, representing 5% of the patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral surgery. Twenty-six (28%) patients had undergone previous cardiac operations, whereas 18 (20%) presented preoperatively with complications related to endocarditis, most commonly systemic embolization. Sixty-nine and twenty-three patients, respectively, underwent early surgery (75%) or were operated on after the completion of the targeted antibiotic treatment (25%). A conservative procedure was feasible in 16/80 (20%) patients with native valve endocarditis. Conversion to standard sternotomy was necessary in a single case (1.1%). No cases of intraoperative iatrogenic aortic dissection were reported. Four patients died perioperatively, accounting for a thirty-day mortality of 4.4%. The causes of death were refractory heart or multiorgan failure and/or septic shock. A new onset stroke was observed postoperatively in one case (1.1%). Overall actuarial survival rate at 1 and 5 years after operation was 90.8% and 80.4%, whereas freedom from mitral valve reoperation at 1 and 5 years was 96.3% and 93.2%, respectively. Conclusions. This present study shows good early and long-term results in higher-risk patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery for mitral valve infective endocarditis. Total body, vascular, and echocardiographic screening represent the key points to select the optimal approach and allow for the extension of indications for minimally invasive surgery to sicker patients, including active endocarditis and sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES Minimally invasive access has become the preferred choice in mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery. Reported outcomes are at least similar to classic sternotomy although aortic cross-clamp times are usually longer. METHODS We analysed the largest registry of mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery patients (mini-mitral international registry (MMIR)) for the relationship between aortic cross-clamp times, mortality and other outcomes. From 2015 to 2021, 7513 consecutive patients underwent mini-mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery in 17 international Heart-Valve-Centres. Data were collected according to Mitral Valve Academic Research Consortium (MVARC) definitions and 6878 patients with 1 cross-clamp period were analysed. Uni- and multivariable regression analyses were used to assess outcomes in relation to aortic cross-clamp times. RESULTS Median age was 65 years (57% male). Median EuroSCORE II was 1.3% (Inpatient Quality Reporting (IQR): 0.80–2.63). Minimally invasive access was either by direct vision (28%), video-assisted (41%) or totally endoscopic/robotic (31%). Femoral cannulation was used in 93%. Three quarters were repairs with 17% additional tricuspid valve surgery and 19% Atrial Fibrillation (AF)-ablation. Cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp times were 135 min (IQR: 107–173) and 85 min (IQR: 64–111), respectively. Postoperative events were death (1.6%), stroke (1.2%), bleeding requiring revision (6%), low cardiac output syndrome (3.5%) and acute kidney injury (6.2%, mainly stage I). Statistical analyses identified significant associations between cross-clamp time and mortality, low cardiac output syndrome and acute kidney injury (all P  < 0.001). Age, low ejection fraction and emergent surgery were risk factors, but variables of 'increased complexity' (redo, endocarditis, concomitant procedures) were not. CONCLUSIONS Aortic cross-clamp time is associated with mortality as well as postoperatively impaired cardiac and renal function. Thus, implementing measures to reduce cross-clamp time may improve outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent justifications for minimally invasive techniques include the desire to reduce surgical trauma, enhance patient recovery, and lower costs without sacrificing the effectiveness of mitral valve repair or replacement. The objective of the current study is to ascertain whether minimally invasive mitral valve surgery using lower ministernotomies and mini-thoracotomies results in better postoperative outcomes than traditional surgery using a full sternotomy. Patients and methods: A total of 60 patients were included in this study, of which 30 cases were operated upon conventionally through full median sternotomy, 15 cases were operated upon through mini-sternotomy, and 15 cases were operated upon through right anterolateral mini-thoracotomy. Matched groups of patients were used. Results: Statistical analysis of the basic data of patients before operations showed no statistical significance between the groups. Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery was statistically associated with a significantly better outcome regarding ventilation time, chest tube drainage, blood transfusion and postoperative pain in comparison to conventional mitral valve surgery. These better results were not accompanied by significant increase in ICU stay, duration of inotropic support, postoperative complications, hospital stay and in-hospital mortality. On the other hand, intra-operative time parameters were shorter in conventional cases with statistical significance in total operative time when compared with minimally invasive cases. Mini-thoracotomy as an approach showed superior results when compared with the ministernotomy approach regarding chest tube drainage, and blood transfusion. However, mini-sternotomy cases showed less intra-operative time parameters, ventilation time, duration of inotropic support and postoperative pain with statistical significance in total operative time. Conclusion: Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery improved significantly the early outcome regarding ventilation time, chest tube drainage, blood transfusion and postoperative pain in comparison to conventional mitral valve surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Minimally invasive coronary bypass surgery may reveal the risk of pulmonary complications that may occur due to single lung ventilation with the aid of a dual lumen endotracheal tube. In our study, we aimed to present the results of post-operative CPAP treatment in this technique as our own clinical experience. Methods: In our study, a total of 24 patients who underwent minimally invasive multivessel bypass operation with left anterior thoracotomy in our clinic and who were treated with CPAP in the post-operative period were retrospectively analyzed. Sixteen of the patients were male and eight were female. The age ranges were 46–78 years, with a mean age of 61.2±24 years. The patients were evaluated in terms of pulmonary complications such as atelectasis, pleural effusion, pneumonia, partial oxygen pressure decrease, and blunt costodiaphragmatic sinus. Results: Two of our patients, who had atelectasis areas in the chest X-ray in the early post-operative period, showed improvement with mild blunting of sinus costodiaphragmaticus, without the need for any intervention at the discharge stage after CPAP. Two of our patients with low saturation and partial oxygen pressure achieved sufficient ox ygen values in room air after CPAP support. Pleural effusion requiring t horacentesis w as n ot detected in any patient. In general, no different complications were observed. In the post-operative period, our patients were discharged between 5 and 7 days. Conclusion: However, there are technical difficulties of the method and risks increased by one-lung ventilation. Pulmonary complications, which play an important role in mortality and morbidity, are especially important. In our own clinical experience, we have observed that postoperative CPAP application is beneficial [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling moderate-to-severe pain remains a major challenge after cardiothoracic surgery. Several outcomes have been compared extensively after valve surgery performed via midline sternotomy versus mini-thoracotomy, but postoperative pain (POP) was not adequately examined. Therefore, the authors tested the hypothesis that there is no difference in POP trajectories in patients undergoing valve surgery via midline sternotomy versus mini-thoracotomy. An Institutional Review Board-approved retrospective study. At a single, large academic medical center. Adult patients who underwent mitral or aortic valve surgeries over a 5-year period. The authors compared the characteristics of pain between valve surgery patients receiving either midline sternotomy or mini-thoracotomy. To identify pain score trajectories, the authors employed latent class linear mixed models and then used multinomial regression models to study the association between incision type and pain trajectory class. The authors' cohort consisted of 1,660 surgical patients—544 (33%) received a midline sternotomy, and 1,116 (66%) received a mini-thoracotomy. The authors identified the following 4 pain trajectory classes: stationary, rapidly improving, slowly improving, and acute worsening pain. Compared to the rapidly improving class, the odds of belonging to the stationary (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] [95% CI] 1.45 [1.01- 2.08]; p = 0.04) or the acute worsening class (aOR [95% CI] 1.71 [1.10-2.67] p = 0.02) were significantly higher for sternotomy patients compared to mini-thoracotomy. Midline sternotomies are associated with higher odds of having an acute worsening or stationary versus a rapidly improving pain trajectory compared to mini-thoracotomies. Therefore, the choice of incision may play an important role in determining POP trajectory after valve surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimal invasive mitral valve surgery gained wide acceptance. However, criticism continuous about its ability to replace the conventional full sternotomy technique.Aim of the work: The study aimed to compare between the full sternotomy and less invasive approaches for mitral valve surgery.Patients and Methods: The study recruited 100 patients. They were allocated to one of two equal groups [the traditional and minimal invasive approach]. All patients were thoroughly evaluated by history taking, physical examination, laboratory and ancillary radiological investigations. Assessment included incision length, weaning events, aortic cross clamp time, total bypass and operative times, rate of conversion from minimally invasive technique to full sternotomy. In surgical intensive care unit, ventilation hours, post-operative pain and need for analgesia, re-exploration for bleeding, blood loss and blood transfusion, and any complications were documented.Results: Preoperative New York Heart Association [NYHA] class was significantly different between groups A and B. But, no significant difference was reported for patient demographic or preoperative data. The incision length and cross clamp time was shorter in A than B group [6.56±1.88 cm, 61.78±35.91 minutes’ vs 12.54±1.78 cm, and 78.08±36.24 minutes, respectively]. Otherwise, the cannulation, bypass, operative times were significantly longer among group A. The ventilation, ICU stay, hospital stay, bleeding, serum creatinine and pain scores were significantly lower among group A. the postoperative events were comparable between both groups with slight increase of neurological events in A group [3 cases] than B group [2 cases]. At 6 months, both groups yielded non-significant difference, regardless of better outcome at direct postoperative time.Conclusion: Minimal invasive mitral valve surgery had a good short and mid-term outcome as the conventional sternotomy approach. It could replace the conventional approach as a gold-standard for mitral valve surgery.

Background. Minimally invasive surgery via right mini-thoracotomy has become the standard of care for the treatment of mitral valve disease worldwide, particularly at high-volume centers. In recent years, the spectrum of indications has progressively shifted and extended to fragile and higher-risk patients, also addressing more complex mitral valve disease and ultimately including patients with native or prosthetic infective endocarditis. The rationale for the adoption of the minimally invasive approach is to minimize surgical trauma, promote an earlier postoperative recovery, and reduce the incidence of surgical wound infection and other nosocomial infections. The aim of this retrospective observational study is to evaluate the effectiveness and the early and late outcome in patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery for mitral valve infective endocarditis. Methods. Prospectively collected data regarding minimally invasive surgery in patients with mitral valve infective endocarditis were entered into a dedicated database for the period between January 2007 and December 2022 and retrospectively analyzed. All comers during the study period underwent a preoperative evaluation based on their clinical history and anatomy for the allocation to the most appropriate surgical strategy. The selection of the mini-thoracotomy approach was primarily driven by a thorough transthoracic and especially transesophageal echocardiographic evaluation, coupled with total body and vascular imaging. Results. During the study period, 92 patients underwent right mini-thoracotomy to treat native (80/92, 87%) or prosthetic (12/92, 13%) mitral valve endocarditis at our institution, representing 5% of the patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral surgery. Twenty-six (28%) patients had undergone previous cardiac operations, whereas 18 (20%) presented preoperatively with complications related to endocarditis, most commonly systemic embolization. Sixty-nine and twenty-three patients, respectively, underwent early surgery (75%) or were operated on after the completion of the targeted antibiotic treatment (25%). A conservative procedure was feasible in 16/80 (20%) patients with native valve endocarditis. Conversion to standard sternotomy was necessary in a single case (1.1%). No cases of intraoperative iatrogenic aortic dissection were reported. Four patients died perioperatively, accounting for a thirty-day mortality of 4.4%. The causes of death were refractory heart or multiorgan failure and/or septic shock. A new onset stroke was observed postoperatively in one case (1.1%). Overall actuarial survival rate at 1 and 5 years after operation was 90.8% and 80.4%, whereas freedom from mitral valve reoperation at 1 and 5 years was 96.3% and 93.2%, respectively. Conclusions. This present study shows good early and long-term results in higher-risk patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery for mitral valve infective endocarditis. Total body, vascular, and echocardiographic screening represent the key points to select the optimal approach and allow for the extension of indications for minimally invasive surgery to sicker patients, including active endocarditis and sepsis.

Although the conventional methods for endo-cardial pacemaker lead implantation via subclavian or cephalic or axillary vein routes is common, but sometimes due to anatomical variations it is not feasible to access these veins Emergence of newer techniques are useful for lead implantation. This case report focuses on a hybrid approach of combined mini-thoracotomy for endocardial pacemaker lead implantation. This fluoroscopy guided minimal thoracotomy approach with endocardial MRI compatible lead placement had the benefits of simple procedural, minimal hospital stay, low early complication rates and economically viable to the patient.

Abstract Background Recently adopted mini-thoracotomy approach for surgical aortic valve replacement has shown benefits such as reduced pain and shorter recovery, compared to more conventional mini-sternotomy access. However, whether limited exposure of the heart and ascending aorta resulting from an incision in the second intercostal space may lead to increased intraoperative cerebral embolization and more prominent postoperative neurologic decline, remains inconclusive. The aim of our study was to assess potential neurological complications after two different minimal invasive surgical techniques for aortic valve replacement by measuring cerebral microembolic signal during surgery and by follow-up cognitive evaluation. Methods Trans-cranial Doppler was used for microembolic signal detection during aortic valve replacement performed via mini-sternotomy and mini-thoracotomy. Patients were evaluated using Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination Revised Test before and 30 days after surgical procedure. Results A total of 60 patients were recruited in the study. In 52 patients, transcranial Doppler was feasible. Of those, 25 underwent mini-sternotomy and 27 had mini-thoracotomy. There were no differences between groups with respect to sex, NYHA class distribution, Euroscore II or aortic valve area. Patients in mini-sternotomy group were younger (60.8 ± 14.4 vs.72 ± 5.84, p = 0.003), heavier (85.2 ± 12.4 vs.72.5 ± 12.9, p = 0.002) and had higher body surface area (1.98 ± 0.167 vs. 1.83 ± 0.178, p = 0.006). Surgery duration was longer in mini-sternotomy group compared to mini-thoracotomy (158 ± 24 vs. 134 ± 30 min, p

Background: Minimally invasive heart surgery continues to spread rapidly around the world. Although coronary artery bypass surgery with median sternotomy continues to be performed intensively in many centers, the results of the new literature continue to contribute to proving the reliability of minimally invasive coronary surgery. In this study, we aimed to contribute to the routine feasibility of minimally invasive coronary bypass with left anterior mini‐thoracotomy with our own case series. Methods: From July 2019 to August 2021 a total of 184 nonselected consecutive patients underwent minimally invasive on‐pump multivessel coronary artery bypass grafting through the left anterior minithoracotomy in the fourth intercostal space. In the operation decision; regardless of low ejection fraction, morbid obesity, number of diseased vessels, or other comorbid factors, bypass operation was performed routinely via thoracotomy without selecting patients, except redo patients or porcelain aorta. The mean number of grafts was 3.3 ± 0.5. Left internal mammary artery was used in all patients. For other anastomoses; saphenous vein graft was used. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), aortic cross‐clamping, and blood cardioplegia were used in all patients. Postoperative results of all patients were analyzed retrospectively. Results: The total CPB time was 144.5 ± 27.3 min, and aortic cross‐clamp time 82.1 ± 16.2 min. The mean intensive care stay was 1.2 ± 0.7 days and mean total hospital stay 5.1 ± 1.2 days. Total perioperative mortality was 0.54% (one patient). Myocardial infarction was not observed in any case in the postoperative period. The cause of mortality was delayed tamponade occurring on the fifth postoperative day. Nine patients underwent revision due to bleeding in the early postoperative period. There was no patient who underwent stroke or developed renal failure requiring hemodialysis in the postoperative period. One hundred and eighty‐three patients (99.4%) were discharged with good recovery. Conclusion: Minimally invasive multivessel bypass surgery is a surgical method that has just started to become widespread. The fact that the technique is new and more challenging than conventional methods makes it difficult for surgeons to adopt it. In addition, one of the most important issues is that the surgical results should be satisfactory. Our study shows that safe, successful, and satisfactory results can be obtained by using this method, as in our case series. In addition, we think that it can be successfully applied routinely to all patients without distinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective: To compare the in-hospital outcomes of a right-sided anterolateral minithoracotomy with those of median sternotomy in patients who received a mitral valve replacement (MVR) because of rheumatic mitral valve stenosis (RMS). Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 128 patients (34% male) with RMS between 2011 and 2015. The median age was 53 years (45; 56). The mean ejection fraction was 58.4±6.3%. All the subjects were divided into two groups - Group 1 contained 78 patients who underwent MVR via minithoracotomy (MT-MVR), while Group 2 contained 50 patients who underwent MVR via median sternotomy (S-MVR). Results: In the MT-MVR group, a mechanical prosthesis was implanted in 72% of cases, while it was implanted in 90% of cases in the S-MVR group (P=0.01). The duration of myocardial ischemia was similar (MT-MVR, 77±24 min; S-MVR, 70±18 min) (P=0.09). However, the cardiopulmonary bypass time was lower in the S-MVR group than in the MT-MVR group (99±24 min and 119±34 min, respectively) (P≤0.001). There was no difference in the duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit stay, and hospitalization period. Postoperative blood loss was lower in the MT-MVR group (P≤0.001) than in the S-MVR group. There are no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications (superficial wound infection, stroke, delirium, pericardial tamponade, pleural puncture, acute kidney insufficiency, and implantation of pacemaker). The overall in-hospital mortality was 3.9% (P=0.6) Conclusion: The minimally invasive approach for RMS is feasible and has an excellent cosmetic effect without increasing the risk of surgical complications.

OBJECTIVE: The Ozaki procedure, which has been the focus of attention with its remarkable midterm results in aortic valve reconstruction, requires conventional sternotomy. Although there are few reports on the feasibility of mini-sternotomy for the Ozaki procedure, there are no studies on mini-thoracotomy approach. The aim of this study is to present the short-term results of the right vertical infra-axillary mini-thoracotomy approach for the Ozaki technique. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 6 consecutive patients (4 males and 2 females) undergoing the Ozaki procedure with right vertical infra-axillary mini-thoracotomy between October 2020 and January 2023. Surgical indications of AVR were as follows: severe aortic stenosis in 5, severe aortic regurgitation in 1 of patients. Concomitant procedure (tricuspid DeVega annuloplasty) was performed in 1 patient. Results: The Ozaki procedure with mini-thoracotomy was successfully performed in all patients. The mean age was 69.1±8.6 years. The overall duration of follow-up was 13.5±9.6 months. Postoperative echocardiographic assessment showed a mean transvalvular pressure gradient of 7.2 ± 3.4 mmHg at discharge, and 7.4 ± 3.3 mmHg at last follow-ups. The assessed grades of regurgitation at the same times were as follows: no regurgitation in 4 patients and minimal in 2 patients at discharge, while no regurgitation in 3 patients and minimal in 3 patients at last follow-ups. All patients showed a mean improvement of 1.16 in New York Heart Association functional class. There was no mortality, reintervention or any valve related complication. Conclusions: The Ozaki procedure with right vertical infra-axillary mini-thoracotomy was found to have good feasibility, hemodynamic performance and safety at short-term period. Further follow-up is necessary to evaluate its midterm to long-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The preclinical treatment of a traumatic or spontaneous tension pneumothorax remains a particular challenge in pediatric patients. Currently recommended interventions for decompression are either finger thoracostomy or needle decompression. Due to the tiny intercostal spaces, finger thoracostomy may not be feasible in small children and surgical preparation may be necessary. In needle decompression, the risk of injuring underlying vital structures is increased because of the smaller anatomic structures. As most emergency physicians do not regularly work in pediatric trauma care, decompression of tension pneumothorax is associated with significant uncertainty; however, in this rare emergency situation, consistent and goal-oriented action is mandatory and lifesaving. An assessment of pre-existing experience and commonly used techniques therefore seems necessary to deduce the need for future education and training.Objective: In this study an online survey was created to evaluate the experience and the favored prehospital treatment of tension pneumothorax in children among German emergency physicians.Material and Methods: An online survey was conducted with 43 questions on previous experience with tension pneumothorax in children, favored decompression technique and anatomical structures in different age groups. Surveyed were the emergency physicians of the ground-based emergency medical service of the University Medical Center Mannheim, the German Air Rescue Service (DRF) and the pediatric emergency medical service of the City of Munich.Results: More than half of all respondents stated that there was uncertainty about the procedure of choice. Needle decompression was favored in smaller children and mini-thoracostomy in older children. In comparison with the literature, the thickness of the chest wall was mostly estimated correctly by the emergency medical physicians. The depth of the vital structures was underestimated at most of the possible insertion sites in all age groups. At the lateral insertion sites on the left hemithorax, however, the distance to the left ventricle was overestimated. The caliber of the needle selected for decompression tended to be too large, especially in younger children.Conclusion: Even though having interviewed an experienced group of prehospital emergency physicians, the experience in decompression of tension pneumothorax in children is relatively scant. Knowledge of chest wall thickness and depth to vital structures is sufficient, the choice of needle calibers tends to be too large but still reasonable. For many providers a large amount of uncertainty about the right choice of technique and equipment arises from the challenge of decompressing a tension pneumothorax in children and therefore further theoretical education and regular training are required for safe performance of the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recently adopted mini-thoracotomy approach for surgical aortic valve replacement has shown benefits such as reduced pain and shorter recovery, compared to more conventional mini-sternotomy access. However, whether limited exposure of the heart and ascending aorta resulting from an incision in the second intercostal space may lead to increased intraoperative cerebral embolization and more prominent postoperative neurologic decline, remains inconclusive. The aim of our study was to assess potential neurological complications after two different minimal invasive surgical techniques for aortic valve replacement by measuring cerebral microembolic signal during surgery and by follow-up cognitive evaluation.Methods: Trans-cranial Doppler was used for microembolic signal detection during aortic valve replacement performed via mini-sternotomy and mini-thoracotomy. Patients were evaluated using Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination Revised Test before and 30 days after surgical procedure.Results: A total of 60 patients were recruited in the study. In 52 patients, transcranial Doppler was feasible. Of those, 25 underwent mini-sternotomy and 27 had mini-thoracotomy. There were no differences between groups with respect to sex, NYHA class distribution, Euroscore II or aortic valve area. Patients in mini-sternotomy group were younger (60.8 ± 14.4 vs.72 ± 5.84, p = 0.003), heavier (85.2 ± 12.4 vs.72.5 ± 12.9, p = 0.002) and had higher body surface area (1.98 ± 0.167 vs. 1.83 ± 0.178, p = 0.006). Surgery duration was longer in mini-sternotomy group compared to mini-thoracotomy (158 ± 24 vs. 134 ± 30 min, p < 0.001, respectively). There were no differences between groups in microembolic load, length of ICU or total hospital stay. Total microembolic signals count was correlated with cardiopulmonary bypass duration (5.64, 95%CI 0.677-10.60, p = 0.027). Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination Revised Test score decreased equivalently in both groups (p = 0.630) (MS: 85.2 ± 9.6 vs. 82.9 ± 11.4, p = 0.012; MT: 85.2 ± 9.6 vs. 81.3 ± 8.8, p = 0.001).Conclusion: There is no difference in microembolic load between the groups. Total intraoperative microembolic signals count was associated with cardiopulmonary bypass duration. Age, but not micorembolic signals load, was associated with postoperative neurologic decline. TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER: clinicaltrials.gov , NCT02697786 14. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Repairing thoracic aortic aneurysms with endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is a safe and minimally invasive method with low morbidity and short postoperative recovery. We developed a novel method to treat descending thoracic aortic aneurysms using a mini-thoracotomy approach in complex patients with difficult access., Methods: A 56-year-old male patient presented with a 3-day history of chest pain. His past surgical history included infrarenal aortic ligation and right axillobifemoral bypass. Thoracic computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed a saccular aortic aneurysmal dilatation at zone 2 measuring 4.4 × 4 cm. Owing to his surgical history, vascular access through the femoral and iliac arteries or abdominal aorta was impossible. We developed a new technique using a left posterolateral mini-thoracotomy approach to gain vascular access and perform TEVAR, avoiding the need for an open thoracotomy repair., Results and Conclusions: Thoracic CTA performed before discharge revealed complete aneurysmal exclusion and no endoleaks. Postoperative follow-up CTA (6 months and annually thereafter) revealed no aneurysm formation or aortic restenosis. The femoral artery, followed by the iliac artery, is the traditional access route for TEVAR. Left posterolateral mini-thoracotomy may be required as an alternative access in complex patients., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Various thoracotomy practices have been employed for occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) which are not amenable to medical management. We report our preliminary experience of using a mini-thoracotomy approach in small premature infants and determining survival outcomes in relation to factors such as gender, birth weight, age, and type of ventilation used intraoperatively. Methods: Between January 2004 and December 2012, 52 consecutive premature infants with an echocardiographic diagnosis of isolated PDA, which are not amenable to medical treatment, were included. Those with chromosomal abnormalities, major cardiac congenital anomalies aside from septal defects, and infants who did not receive mechanical ventilation in the first week of life were excluded. The median gestational age was 28 weeks and the median gestational weight at surgery was 705g. The median PDA size was 3.8mm, ranging from 1.6 to 5mm. Twenty-nine patients were given non-selective ventilation and twenty-three were anesthetized using selective right-lung ventilation using a 2-F balloon catheter for arterial embolectomy. A left lateral mini-thoracotomy was performed in all infants and PDA closure achieved by double ligation using zero silk sutures. Results: The median operative time and mean length of hospital stay were 45 minutes and 90 days, respectively. No major hemorrhage requiring blood transfusion occurred during the surgery. The survival rate until hospital discharge was 88.5%. There were no mortalities associated with the surgery itself. Six (11.5%) neonates died postoperatively because of prematurity (p-value=1.000). Pneumonia and atelectasis were among the few complications encountered post ligation. An interesting association was recognized between ventilation and surgical complications; that is neonates who underwent selective right ventilation did not experience any of the complications mentioned above in comparison to those who were put under non-selective ventilation (p-value

Abstract Background Hydatid cyst is an endemic infectious disease. Various modalities have been provided to approach hydatosis. This article reports a 20-years-experience of a new minimally invasive technique for the management of solitary pulmonary hydatid cysts using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) with mini-thoracotomy. Methods We reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent unilateral or bilateral single pulmonary hydatid cyst excision using VATS with mini-thoracotomy. All patients were managed by the same surgeon over the period from January 1996 till January 2015. Results The study involved 120 patients aged between 11 and 74 years (median age = 30 years). The overall number of conducted surgeries was 130 (10 patients needed two surgeries). No deaths were reported during or after surgery. No recurrences were seen in the follow-up period that ranged between 10 and 30 months. Three patients (2.3% out of the 130 surgeries) developed post-operative complications: one patient had prolonged air leak and two patients developed empyema. Conclusion VATS with mini-thoracotomy is an effective and safe option for managing intact or ruptured solitary pulmonary hydatid cysts. Further studies in controlled prospective design are needed to compare this approach to other modalities of management.

Objective: To compare the in-hospital outcomes of a right-sided anterolateral minithoracotomy with those of median sternotomy in patients who received a mitral valve replacement (MVR) because of rheumatic mitral valve stenosis (RMS). Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 128 patients (34% male) with RMS between 2011 and 2015. The median age was 53 years (45; 56). The mean ejection fraction was 58.4±6.3%. All the subjects were divided into two groups - Group 1 contained 78 patients who underwent MVR via minithoracotomy (MT-MVR), while Group 2 contained 50 patients who underwent MVR via median sternotomy (S-MVR). Results: In the MT-MVR group, a mechanical prosthesis was implanted in 72% of cases, while it was implanted in 90% of cases in the S-MVR group (P=0.01). The duration of myocardial ischemia was similar (MT-MVR, 77±24 min; S-MVR, 70±18 min) (P=0.09). However, the cardiopulmonary bypass time was lower in the S-MVR group than in the MT-MVR group (99±24 min and 119±34 min, respectively) (P≤0.001). There was no difference in the duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit stay, and hospitalization period. Postoperative blood loss was lower in the MT-MVR group (P≤0.001) than in the S-MVR group. There are no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications (superficial wound infection, stroke, delirium, pericardial tamponade, pleural puncture, acute kidney insufficiency, and implantation of pacemaker). The overall in-hospital mortality was 3.9% (P=0.6) Conclusion: The minimally invasive approach for RMS is feasible and has an excellent cosmetic effect without increasing the risk of surgical complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: One of the main challenges in cardiac surgery is effective postoperative analgesia. Erector spinae-plane block (ESP block) is a novel regional technique, introduced by Forero in 2016 for neuropathic chest pain, then used successfully for mastectomy. Aim: To establish the efficacy of the ESP block in patients undergoing mitral and/or tricuspid valve repair through a right mini-thoracotomy. Material and methods: It is a prospective observational cohort study performed in a tertiary health center. In the treatment group, a single-shot ESP block was performed before anesthetic induction. General anesthesia was induced with etomidate, remifentanil, and rocuronium, and continued with sevoflurane and remifentanil. Remifentanil infusion was continued for 2 h post-operatively, then stopped, and the patient's trachea was extubated. Patient-controlled analgesia was started with oxycodone immediately. Total oxycodone consumption and pain severity on the visual analog scale during the first 24 h were analyzed. In the control group, no regional block was performed. Instead of remifentanil, fentanyl was used. Patients were extubated on the second day. Pain was treated with morphine, administered according to nurses' discretion. Pain intensity was evaluated on the numerical rating scale. Results: Nineteen patients were evaluated in the ESP and 25 in the control group. Mechanical ventilation time was shorter in the ESP group (0.6 (0.4-1.1) h) than in the control one (10 (8-17) h, p = 0.00001). Moreover, patients in the ESP group spent fewer days in the intensive care unit (1 (1-1) vs. (2 (2-2), p = 0.0001). Conclusions: The ESP block seems to be safe and efficient for pain control in patients undergoing right mini-thoracotomy for mitral and/or tricuspid valve repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mitral valve surgery (MVS) approached through sternotomy can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality in the elderly population. The aim of this study was to review our experience with minimal access MVS (mini-mitral) in patients aged 70 years or older. Materials and Methods: A total of 44 patients over the age of 70 years had sternal sparing mini-mitral surgery performed by a single surgeon from January 2011 to November 2015. Results: A total of 44 patients (28 [64%] males and 16 [36%] females), in the age group ranging from 70 to 92 years (mean 79.84 ± 6.52), were included in the study. Comorbidities included hypertension (70.5%; n = 31), peripheral vascular disease (9.1%; n = 4), cerebrovascular disease (11.4%; n = 5), severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (2.3%; n = 1), and dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (2.3%; n = 1). Five (11.4%) patients had undergone one or more previous cardiac surgery procedures. A total of 33 (75%) patients underwent mitral valve repair, and 11 (25%) underwent replacement with bioprosthesis. Seven (15.9%) required concomitant tricuspid repair and 1 (2.3%) patent foramen ovale closure. Indications for MVS included myxomatous valve (84%; n = 37), ischemic mitral regurgitation (9%; n = 4), and infective endocarditis (7%; n = 3). Eight (18.2%) cases were performed urgently whereas 36 (71.2%) were performed on an elective basis. The median duration of cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp time was 129 and 85 min, respectively. Three (6.8%) had surgery under hypothermic fibrillatory arrest. There were no conversions to median sternotomy and no 30-day mortalities. Postoperative complications included respiratory complications (34%; n = 15), stroke (4.5%; n = 2), acute renal failure (2.3%; n = 1), and reoperation for bleeding (2.3%; n = 1). The median number of hours on mechanical ventilation and hospital stay was 14 h and 7.5 days, respectively. Conclusion: Mini-mitral surgery is safe and feasible with excellent outcomes in the elderly. In our practice, it is the treatment of choice for MVS in elderly patients over the age of 70 years.

Introduction: The minimally invasive cardiac surgery off-pump coronary artery bypass (MICSOPCAB) is technically difficult; therefore, previous studies have indicated that MICSOPCAB should be contraindicated in patients with impaired left ventricular (LV) function. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of MICSOPCAB in patients with impaired LV function., Methods: The 226 patients underwent MICSOPCAB between August 2017 and September 2022. Our study defined impaired LV function as ejection fraction (EF) in echocardiography 40% or less. The patients were divided into Low EF group ( n  = 39) and Normal EF group ( n  = 187)., Results: The Low EF group was in a more critical preoperative condition than Normal EF group (41.0% in the Low EF group vs. 14.4% in the Normal EF group; p  < 0.001). For preoperative transthoracic echocardiography, LV end-diastolic diameter (5.5 ± 0.9 cm in the Low EF group vs. 5.0 ± 0.8 cm in the Normal EF group; p  < 0.001) and LV end-systolic diameter (4.4 ± 1.0 cm in the Low EF group vs. 3.4 ± 1.0 cm in the Normal EF group; p  < 0.001) were significantly larger in the Low EF group. No differences were found in the operative time (180 [160-240] min in the Low EF group vs. 205 [165-253] min in the Normal EF group; p  = 0.231) and the median number of distal anastomoses (2 [1-2] in the Low EF group vs. 2 [1-3] in the Normal EF group; p  = 0.073). Intensive care unit stay was longer in the Low EF group than in the Normal EF group (2 [1-2] in the Low EF group vs. 1 [1-2] in the Normal EF group; p  = 0.010). Perioperative transfusion was more common in the Low EF group than in the Normal EF group (69.7% vs. 49.2%; p  = 0.023). There were no differences in major complications, hospital stay, and 30-day mortality. The Kaplan-Meier curve showed no significant difference in postoperative major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events rates between the two groups ( p  = 0.185)., Conclusion: In this study, MICSOPCAB can be performed in patients with low EF having short- and mid-term outcomes similar to patients with normal EF. Therefore, low EF should not be contraindicated in MICSOPCAB., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (© 2024 Ushioda, Hirofuji, Yoongtong, Sakboon, Cheewinmethasiri, Kamiya and Arayawudhikul.)

Objective: To compare the immediate results of mini-thoracotomy and sternotomy in patients with mitral valve disease., Material and Methods: The study included 52 patients who underwent mitral valve surgery (25 cases - mini-thoracotomy, 27 cases - sternotomy)., Results: Aortic cross-clamping time was significantly longer in sternotomy compared to mini-thoracotomy group - 110 vs 94 min ( p =0.03). Ventilation time was also significantly longer in the sternotomy group (12 vs. 8 hours, p =0.01). Postoperative morbidity was similar (postoperative wound infection, neurological complications, coronavirus disease, overall in-hospital mortality)., Conclusion: In addition to cosmetic effect, minimally invasive approach in mitral valve surgery has some other advantages including less duration of aortic cross-clamping and mechanical ventilation, availability of reconstructive interventions due to better exposition of the mitral valve and subvalvular structures.

• Mixed germ cell tumour with skip metastasis to unilateral pleura without involvement of any retroperitoneal lymph nodes or secondary to hematogenous spread involving mediastinal structures or any other distant sites is extremely rare. • Histological subtype of metastatic lesion is different from the histological subtype of the primary tumour. • Changing nature of histology of tumour with chemotherapy and progress of disease. • Combined approach of chemotherapy and surgery is needed in case of mixed germ cell tumour depending on the histological subtype, metastasis and clinical presentation of the patient. Testicular germ cell tumours metastasize in a very predictable fashion involving the retroperitoneal lymph nodes first followed by either lymphatic spread via thoracic duct or hematogenous spread to distant organs like lungs, liver and brain. We encountered a case of 21-year-old gentleman with mixed germ cell tumour of testis who later presented with respiratory complaints which turned out to be a metastatic differentiated teratoma of unilateral pleura without involvement of retroperitoneal lymph nodes or any other organs. Skip Metastasis to unilateral pleura is an extremely rare entity for testicular mixed germ cell tumour and no case has been reported in the literature so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS)-CABG is a technique that at its core has patient comfort, early return to routine activities, meeting patient expectations for less invasive options, and maintaining the highest possible standards of care and outcomes. The technique requires not only surgical dexterity but also integration of significant technological advancements in patient care. At a time when percutaneous interventions are often prescribed on the pretext of increased patient comfort and demand, minimally invasive myocardial revascularization becomes even more relevant. Minimally invasive myocardial revascularization is ever evolving and encompasses both small-incision open techniques as well as endoscopic-assisted procedures. The success of the procedure depends not only on the learning curve and familiarity with the technology but also on appropriate patient selection. Mere feasibility of the technique is not sufficient, and the results have to be comparable with the long-established techniques of conventional coronary artery bypass grafting both in terms of early morbidity and mortality as well as long-term outcomes. In this review, we discuss patient selection and technical aspects of minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting. We also provide an evidence-based comparison to early and long-term outcomes with conventional coronary artery bypass grafting. Finally, we review the uptake and outcomes of minimally invasive revascularization in the Indian subcontinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esophageal-pleural fistula is a rare and challenging condition to diagnose and requires strong clinical suspicion in order to be recognized promptly. Chest computed tomography (CT) with contrast medium for oral contrast medium (OS) is the gold standard for diagnosis. The definitive therapy is purely surgical, except for a few selected cases that benefit from endoscopic therapy. Our case involves a 45-year-old woman who came to the Emergency Department with dyspnea and thoracalgia. Chest X-ray and high-resolution CT showed empyema and pleural effusion to the left hemithorax. The lack of improvement despite the therapy and a subsequent clinical finding gave rise to the suspicion of esophageal-pleural fistula, confirmed with CT with contrast medium for OS. In this case, we opted for endoscopy correction of the esophageal defects. The diagnostic delay and the pre-existing comorbidities (previous kidney transplant for chronic kidney disease from lupus nephritis, high blood pressure, familiarity with Ischemic cardiomyopathy) could justify the inauspicious course of our case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 3.5-year-old girl underwent transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus in early infancy during which time her secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) was left alone. When she came for elective closure of ASD, she was found to have bilaterally blocked femoral veins. The defect was successfully closed with an Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO; St. Jude Medical, Plymouth, MN, USA) using a hybrid approach via a sub-mammary mini-thoracotomy incision without using cardiopulmonary bypass. At the end of 1-year follow-up, the child is asymptomatic with device in a stable position without any residual shunt.

Background: Robotic mitral repair is generally performed with four intercostal trocars and a minithoracotomy. We describe our technique and results with a totally-thoracoscopic closed chest approach using a 12 mm valveless trocar as "working port", without a minithoracotomy. We compared our results with this technique with a control group of robotic mitral repairs performed earlier with a minithoracotomy., Methods: Review of all patients with degenerative mitral valve disease who underwent robotic mitral valve repair surgery since December 2019 ( n  = 110). Patients with concomitant procedures ( n  = 8) were excluded. The remaining 102 patients were divided in two groups, depending on the approach used, minithoracotomy ( n  = 63) and totally thoracoscopic ( n  = 39)., Results: There were no significant differences between groups regarding preoperative characteristics. All procedures were completed robotically as planned, and repair rate was 100%. The minithoracotomy group showed a higher percentage of leaflet resections (17.9% vs. 38.7%; p  = 0.03). All surgical times were significatively reduced in the totally thoracoscopic group: Cardiopulmonary bypass (97 vs. 115 min, p  = 0.0008), ischemic time (67 vs. 80 min, p  = 0.0013) and total surgical time (185 vs. 225 min; p  < 0.00001). There were no differences in ICU length of stay (1 day, p  = 0.07) but hospital length of stay was shorter in the totally thoracoscopic group (4 days; p  = 0.0001). Postoperative complications were similar between groups. MR at discharge was mild or less in all cases., Conclusions: Robotic mitral repair for degenerative disease can be safely performed as a closed-chest procedure, using a 12 mm trocar as "working port" and avoiding the need for a minithoracotomy. This approach does not seem to negatively affect the quality of the procedure by any measure, providing similar excellent clinical outcomes and repair rate. All surgical times were shorter in the closed-chest group., Competing Interests: DP received fees for educational events and proctoring services from Edwards Lifesciences. ES received fees for educational events from Edwards Lifesciences and Medtronic and for proctoring services for Abbott. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (© 2023 Sandoval, Morales-Rey, Bartolozzi and Pereda.)

Objective: To assess the safety and benefits of new techniques and technologies such as single-dose (del Nido) cardioplegia and suture fasteners (COR-KNOT) in patients undergoing mini-thoracotomy for degenerative mitral valve repair (MVR).Methods: From 2009 to 2016, 252 patients underwent primary isolated degenerative MVR by mini-thoracotomy by a single surgeon. Del Nido cardioplegia was used in 153 patients (61%) and COR-KNOT in 168 (67%). Patient outcomes were compared using propensity-matching separately for del Nido versus Buckberg cardioplegia and COR-KNOT versus knot-pusher.Results: There were no operative deaths and 99.2% of the patients had none/trivial mitral regurgitation at discharge. In patients receiving del Nido or Buckberg cardioplegia, occurrence of adverse events was similar. However, aortic cross clamp (AoCC; 54.2 ± 15.7 vs 64 ± 15.8 min; P < 0.0001) and operative room (OR; 308 ± 42.1 vs 336 ± 63 min; P < 0.001) times were shorter with del Nido cardioplegia. In patients receiving COR-KNOT versus knot-pusher, occurrence of adverse events was similar. However, AoCC (54.1 ± 15.2 vs 66.1 ± 15.9 min; P < 0.0001) and OR (311 ± 43.6 vs 336 ± 65.4 min; P < 0.0001) times were shorter with COR-KNOT. Results were similar after matching for both, del Nido versus Buckberg cardioplegia and COR-KNOT versus knot-pusher.Conclusion: New techniques and technologies, such as del Nido cardioplegia and COR-KNOT, decrease AoCC and OR times without compromising patient safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]