Minimally invasive cardiac surgery is a process of doing heart procedures through small cuts rather than opening the whole chest. Surgeons operate on the heart with great precision using special instruments and cameras. The ribs are not opened apart, so there is less trauma to the chest.
In comparison to the large incision using open-heart surgery through the breastbone (sternotomy), this procedure is performed through 2 to 4 small incisions, typically between the ribs. Due to this, it is also referred to as keyhole heart surgery.
Not everyone with heart problems can have minimally invasive surgery. It depends on the type and severity of the heart condition, your overall health, past surgeries, and anatomy of your heart.
Some common conditions that are treated through this technique include:
Your cardiologist and your heart surgeon will review your records and determine if this method is suitable for you.
It can be classified into:
It is used for the repair of blocked coronary arteries in the heart. Rather than opening up the entire chest, a donor blood vessel is attached with a small incision on the chest wall. It enhances blood delivery to the heart muscle.
Valve narrowing or leakage can be fixed without a chest incision. A valve can be repaired or replaced by surgeons with devices passed through very small incisions.
This involves robotic arms operated by the surgeon from a console. It provides very precise control and is widely used for valve fixations and artery bypass grafts.
Used to treat irregular heartbeats such as atrial fibrillation. Surgeons create patterns of scarring on the heart in order to restore its rhythm, all through tiny cuts.
The trend toward minimally invasive methods is not solely a matter of not making large scars. This procedure provides genuine, medical advantages.
Less cutting translates into less pain and less chance of infection. Incisions are generally 2–3 inches long.
Patients typically remain 3 to 5 days in the hospital, as opposed to 7 to 10 days for open surgery.
As the chest bone is not opened, recovery is more rapid. The majority of individuals can return to light activities within 2 to 3 weeks.
There is a lesser risk of bleeding, infections, and lung complications.
Small incisions equal minimal scarring, which is especially critical for young or female patients.
This frequently equates to fewer or no blood transfusions during surgery.
Whole procedure can be divided into pre surgery, surgery and post surgery.
You will be tested on things such as ECG, echocardiography, chest X-ray, and CT scan. The doctors will explain the plan, anesthesia, and recovery time.
General anesthetic is administered. Small cuts are made on the side or front of the chest. A camera and tiny instruments are inserted to perform the operation. A heart-lung machine may be used depending on the procedure.
You’ll be monitored in a cardiac ICU for a day or two. Most patients are walking within 1–2 days. Breathing exercises, physiotherapy, and light movements begin early.
One of the biggest advantages is the shorter recovery time. Here’s what to expect:
This is much faster compared to conventional heart surgery that requires 10 to 12 weeks for full recovery.
Your care team may also recommend cardiac rehabilitation, consisting of exercise, instruction, and counseling to enhance your strength and confidence.
Seek immediate attention if you experience:
These may be symptoms of complications and require immediate medical attention.
Although safer, no surgery is risk-free. Possible complications are:
But with expert surgeons and proper care, these are rare.
For most patients, yes. But not always.
Minimally invasive heart surgery is best for patients with single issues such as a solo valve problem or clogged artery. However, in more complicated or multi-faceted conditions, open-heart surgery can be the optimal option. Ultimately, it will be determined by your surgeon and cardiologist.
Taking this route can be a quicker recovery, less risk, and overall better experience. If your condition of the heart permits, it's worth exploring this option with your cardiologist.
Artemis Hospital offers advanced minimally invasive heart surgeries, including coronary bypass, valve procedures, and robotic-assisted techniques,with high success rates. Whether it's for you or a loved one, being informed about the benefits and recovery journey helps you make confident decisions for better heart health.
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