An Overview of Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery

​Heart surgeries are often complex and daunting. However, recent decades have seen significant advancements in surgical techniques, making heart surgeries safer, more precise, and less invasive. One such advancement is minimally invasive heart surgery (MIHS), which is performed through small incisions, typically between the ribs. Unlike traditional surgeries that require cutting through the sternum, this method allows surgeons to access the heart using robotic assistance or endoscopic tools for greater precision.

There are different types of MIHS. Some of the more popular forms are minimally invasive coronary artery bypass, or CABG, atrial septal defect (ASD) repair, maze procedures for atrial fibrillation, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), and valve repair or replacement.

Beyond its aesthetic value, MIHS has many surgical benefits. Smaller incisions result in less physical trauma, reducing the risk of infection during and after the procedure. The smaller the incisions, the less blood loss and the lower the need for transfusions.

MIHS also promotes faster recovery and significantly shortens hospital stays, often reducing them by half compared to traditional surgery. Postoperative pain is reduced because there is no major bone cutting involved. Cosmetic results are improved as MIHS creates smaller, less noticeable scars. This procedure also carries fewer complications, which is especially important for patients with pre-existing conditions and older adults, who are more prone to complications.

MIHS relies heavily on both advanced technology and highly skilled surgeons. Using tools like high-definition 3D cameras, robotic arms, and tiny precision instruments, surgeons can operate with remarkable accuracy even in tight spaces around the heart. Leading cardiac centers, such as Cardiac Surgery Associates, are known for their dedicated teams that blend cutting-edge technology with years of hands-on experience to deliver tailored, high-quality care to each patient.

Getting ready for an MIHS means taking a few important steps to help ensure everything goes smoothly. Before the procedure, the patient care team runs some tests, like blood work and heart imaging, to confirm the patient is a good fit for this type of surgery. In the days leading up to surgery, doctors usually recommend quitting smoking, eating well, and staying gently active if possible to boost heart and lung health. On the day itself, the patient is required to fast and carefully follow all instructions from the surgical team to reduce risks and support a healthy recovery.

MIHS has a shorter recovery time than open-heart surgeries, which makes recovery and postoperative care significantly easier. With MIHS, patients can get on their feet and even go home in a couple of days. Although full recovery from MIHS might take a week, it has a significantly smoother rehabilitation process compared to open-heart surgeries. While recovering, patients are usually advised to participate in cardiac rehabilitation programs, follow up regularly to achieve the best long-term outcomes, and maintain healthy habits.

As surgical technology advances, minimally invasive heart surgery is becoming a more common and effective option for many patients. Improved tools, refined techniques, and greater surgical expertise are helping make this approach a new standard in cardiac care. For anyone facing heart surgery, it’s important to explore all available options, including minimally invasive procedures, since they often offer quicker recovery and fewer complications.

American Health Council’s Best in Medicine Award, Dr. Hartmuth Bittner, Sugeon

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