Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery Provides Excellent Outcomes Without Increased Cost: A Multi-Institutional Analysis

Survival and Durability of Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Repair: Insights from Different Repair Techniques

This study evaluates the long-term outcomes of minimally invasive mitral valve repair (MIMVR) in patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation, focusing on survival, mitral valve repair failure, and re-operation rates. A cohort of patients undergoing three primary repair techniques-quadrangular resection, edge-to-edge repair, and artificial chordae implantation-was analyzed using time-to-event methods. The overall survival rates at 1, 10, and 20 years were high and comparable among the techniques, indicating effective long-term benefits of MIMVR. However, freedom from recurrence of moderate mitral regurgitation (MR) ≥ 2 was significantly higher in the quadrangular resection and edge-to-edge groups compared to the artificial chordae group. No significant differences were observed for recurrent MR ≥ 3. Re-operation rates were low and similar across all techniques, underscoring the durability of MIMVR. Pre-discharge residual MR ≥ 2 was identified as a strong predictor of long-term repair failure. These findings confirm the effectiveness of MIMVR, with all techniques demonstrating excellent long-term survival and durability.

On-table extubation is associated with reduced intensive care unit stay and hospitalization after trans-axillary minimally invasive mitral valve surgery

OBJECTIVES

Few data are available regarding early extubation after mitral valve surgery. We sought to assess the impact of an enhanced recovery after surgery-based protocol-ultra-fast-track protocol-in patients undergoing minimally invasive transaxillary mitral valve surgery.

METHODS

Data of patients who underwent transaxillary mitral valve surgery associated with ultra-fast-track protocol between 2018 and 2023 were reviewed. We compared preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative data of patients who had fast-track extubation (≤6 h since the end of the procedure) and non-fast-track extubation (>6 h) and, within the fast-track group, patients who underwent on-table extubation and patients who were extubated in intensive care unit within 6 h. Multivariable logistic regression was used to study the association of extubation timing and intensive care unit stay, postoperative stay and discharge home.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-six patients were included in the study. Two hundred eighty-two patients underwent fast-track extubation (79%) and 160 were extubated on table (45%). We found no difference in terms of mortality and occurrence of major complications (overall mortality and cerebral stroke 0.3%) according to the extubation timing. Fast-track extubation was associated with shorter intensive care unit stay, discharge home and discharge home within postoperative day 7 when compared to non-fast-track extubation. Within the fast-track group, on-table extubation was associated with intensive care unit stay ≤1 day and discharge home within postoperative day 7.

CONCLUSIONS

Fast-track extubation was achievable in most of the patients undergoing transaxillary minimally invasive mitral valve surgery and was associated with higher rates of day 1 intensive care unit discharge and discharge home. On-table extubation was associated with further reduced intensive care unit stay and hospitalization.

Prediction of poor exposure in endoscopic mitral valve surgery using computed tomography

OBJECTIVES

In endoscopic mitral valve surgery, optimal exposure is crucial. This study aims to develop a predictive model for poor mitral valve exposure in endoscopic surgery, utilizing preoperative body profiles and computed tomography images.

METHODS

We enrolled patients undergoing endoscopic mitral valve surgery with available operative video and preoperative computed tomography. The degree of valve exposure was graded into 0 (excellent), 1 (fair), 2 (poor) and 3 (very poor). Intrathoracic dimensions-anteroposterior width (chest anteroposterior) and left-to-right width (chest width) of the thorax, height of right hemi-thorax (chest height), angle between the left ventricular axis and the horizontal plane (left ventricle apex angle), heart width, level of diaphragm in midline, and vertical distance between the midline diaphragm level and the highest top of the right diaphragm (Δdiaphragm) were measured.

RESULTS

Among 263 patients, mitral valve exposure was graded as 0 in 131 (49.8%), 1 in 72 (27.4%), 2 in 46 (17.5%) and 3 in 14 (5.3%). Body mass index, chest width, left ventricle apex angle, heart width and Δdiaphragm were identified as independent predictors of grades 2 and 3 exposure by stepwise logistic regression analysis, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.822 (P < 0.001). Univariate logistic regression for grade 3 exposure prediction revealed that Δdiaphragm had the largest area under the curve (0.826, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Poor mitral valve exposure occurred in approximately one-fourth of the endoscopic surgery series and might be predicted preoperatively using body mass index and computed tomography measurements to help determine the surgical approach.

Minimally Invasive Trans-Axillary versus Full Sternotomy Mitral Valve Repair: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis on Mid-Term Outcomes

Background and Objectives: Minimally invasive cardiac surgery is an established approach for the treatment of heart valve pathologies and is associated with excellent technical and early postoperative outcomes. Data from medium- and long-term longitudinal evaluation of patients who underwent mitral valve repair (MVr) through transaxillary approach (TAxA) are still lacking. The aim of this study is to investigate mid-term results in patients who underwent TAxA MVr. Materials and Methods: Prospectively collected data of patients who underwent first-time MVr for MV regurgitation between 2017 and 2022, were reviewed. A total of 308 patients received TAxA, while in 220 cases, traditional full sternotomy (FS) was performed. Concomitant aortic and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures, infective endocarditis or urgent operations were excluded. A propensity match (PS) analysis was used to overcome preoperative differences between the populations. Follow-up data were retrieved from outpatients' clinic, telephone calls and municipal administration records. Results: After PS-matching, two well-balanced cohorts of 171 patients were analysed. The overall 30-day mortality rate was 0.6% in both cohorts. No statistical difference in postoperative complications was reported. TAxA cohort experienced earlier postoperative extubation (p < 0.001) with a higher rate of extubation performed in the operating theatre (p < 0.001), shorter intensive care unit (ICU) stay (p < 0.001), and reduced hospitalization with 51% of patients discharged home (p < 0.001). Estimated survival at 5 years was 98.8% in TAxA vs. 93.6% in FS cohort (Log rank p = 0.15). The cumulative incidence of reoperation was 2.6% and 4.4% at 5 years, respectively, in TAxA and FS cohorts (Gray test p = 0.49). Conclusions: TAxA approach for MVr was associated with low rates of in-hospital mortality and major postoperative complications being furthermore associated with shorter mechanical ventilation time, shorter ICU stay and reduced hospitalization with a higher rate of patients able to be discharged home. At mid-term, TAxA was associated with excellent survival and low rate of MV reoperation.

Isolated Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery in Octogenarians: Perioperative Outcome

INTRODUCTION

Despite the feasibility, safety, and excellent outcomes of mitral valve surgery through a right mini-thoracotomy, there is data paucity about its use in octogenarians. In this study, we assess the outcomes of mitral valve surgery via right mini-thoracotomy in octogenarians.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the in-hospital perioperative data of 38 octogenarian patients with severe mitral regurgitation undergoing isolated mitral valve surgery via right mini-thoracotomy from 2013 to 2021 in our institution.

RESULTS

The median patient age was 82 (81-83) years, and the median EuroSCORE II was 3.1% (2.3-4.9). A total of 19 (50%) patients underwent mitral valve repair. The median cardiopulmonary bypass duration was 78 (54-100) min and the median aortic cross-clamping duration was 57 (40-70) min. Two (5.3%) patients were converted to sternotomy, 1 (2.6%) underwent renal replacement therapy, 5 (13.2%) underwent reexploration for bleeding or tamponade, and 12 (31.6%) underwent permanent pacemaker implantation. The surgical repair success rate was 89.5%, with 2 (10.5%) patients requiring reoperation due to repair failure. No other patients required reoperation on the mitral valve. The median intensive care unit stay was 1 (1-2) day, and the median postoperative stay was 9.5 (8-14) days. There was no perioperative stroke or death.

CONCLUSION

Despite a relatively increased risk of pacemaker implantation and reexploration for bleeding, our data support the feasibility of mitral valve surgery via a right mini-thoracotomy in octogenarians, with short ischemic times, low overall in-hospital morbidity, and no mortality. Preferring replacement in mitral diseases with a high risk for repair failure could minimize reoperations in this high-risk subgroup.

Minithoracotomy versus sternotomy in mitral valve surgery: meta-analysis from recent matched and randomized studies

BACKGROUND

There is still ongoing debate about the benefits of mini-thoracotomy (MTH) approach in mitral valve surgery in comparison with complete sternotomy (STER). This study aims to update the current evidence with mortality as primary end point.

METHODS

The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched through June 2022. Two randomized studies and 16 propensity score matched studies published from 2011 to 2022 were included with a total of 12,997 patients operated on from 2005 (MTH: 6467, STER: 6530). Data regarding early mortality, stroke, reoperation for bleeding, new renal failure, new onset of atrial fibrillation, need of blood transfusion, prolonged ventilation, wound infection, time-related outcomes (cross clamp time, cardiopulmonary bypass time, ventilation time, length of intensive care unit stay, length of hospital stay), midterm mortality and reoperation, and costs were extracted and submitted to a meta-analysis using weighted random effects modeling.

RESULTS

The incidence of early mortality, stroke, reoperation for bleeding and prolonged ventilation were similar, all in the absence of heterogeneity. However, the sub-group analysis showed a significant OR in favor of MTH when robotic enhancement was used. New renal failure (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.06-2.62, p = 0.03), new onset of atrial fibrillation (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.15-1.51, p = 0.001) and the need of blood transfusion (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.39-2.27, p = 0.001) were significantly lower in MTH group. Regarding time-related outcomes, there was evidence for important heterogeneity of treatment effect among the studies. Operative times were longer in MTH: differences in means were 20.7 min for cross clamp time (95% CI 14.9-26.4, p = 0.001), 36.8 min for CPB time (95% CI 29.8-43.9, p = 0.001) and 37.7 min for total operative time (95% CI 19.6-55.8, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in ventilation duration; however, the differences in means showed significantly shorter ICU stay and hospital stay after MTH compared to STER: - 0.6 days (95% CI - 1.1/- 0.21, p = 0.001) and - 1.88 days (95% CI - 2.72/- 1.05, p = 0.001) respectively, leading to a significant lower hospital cost after MTH compared to STER with difference in means - 4528 US$ (95% CI - 8725/- 326, p = 0.03). The mid-term mortality was significantly higher after STER compared to MTH: OR = 1.50, 1.09-2.308 (95% CI), p = 0.01; the rate of mid-term reoperation was reported similar in MTH and STER: OR = 0.76, 0.50-1.15 (95% CI), p = 0.19.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis confirms that the MTH approach for mitral valve disease remains associated with prolonged operative times, but it is beneficial in terms of reduced postoperative complications (renal failure, atrial fibrillation, blood transfusion, wound infection), length of stay in ICU and in hospitalization, with finally a reduction in global cost. MTH approach appears associated with a significant reduction of postoperative mortality that must be confirmed by large randomized study.

A Retrospective Evaluation of Endo-Aortic Balloon Occlusion Compared to External Clamping in Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery

We compare outcomes of endo-aortic balloon occlusion (EABO) vs external aortic clamping (EAC) in patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Adult Cardiac Surgery Database. Adults undergoing mitral valve surgery (July 2017-December 2018) were identified within the STS database (N = 60,607). Total 7,978 patients underwent a minimally invasive approach (including robotically assisted). About 1,163 EABO patients were 1:1 propensity-matched to EAC patients using exact matching on age, sex, and type of mitral procedure, and propensity score average matching for 16 other risk indicators. Early outcomes were compared. Categorical variables were compared using logistic regression; hospital and intensive care unit length of stay were compared using negative binomial regression. In the matched cohort, mean age was 62 years; 35.9% were female, and 86% underwent mitral valve repair. Cardiopulmonary bypass time was shorter for EABO vs EAC group (125.0 ± 53.0 vs 134.0 ± 67.0 minutes, P = 0.0009). There was one aortic dissection in the EAC group and none in the EABO group (P value > 0.31), and no statistically significant differences in cross-clamp time, major intraoperative bleeding, perioperative mortality, stroke, new onset of atrial fibrillation, postoperative acute kidney injury, success of repair. Median hospital LOS was shorter for EABO vs EAC procedures (4 vs 5 days, P < 0.0001). In this large, retrospective, STS database propensity-matched analysis ofpatients undergoing MIMVS, we observed similar safety outcomes for EABO and EAC, including no aortic dissections in the EABO group. The EABO group showed slightly shorter CPB times and hospital LOS.

Building a successful minimally invasive mitral valve repair program before introducing the robotic approach: The Massachusetts General Hospital experience

Background

Patients with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) requiring surgical repair (MVr) are increasingly operated using minimally invasive strategies. Skill acquisition may be facilitated by a dedicated MVr program. We present here our institutional experience in establishing minimally invasive MVr (starting in 2014), laying the foundation to introduce robotic MVr.

Methods

We reviewed all patients that had undergone MVr for MVP via sternotomy or mini-thoracotomy between January 2013 and December 2020 at our institution. In addition, all cases of robotic MVr between January 2021 and August 2022 were analyzed. Case complexity, repair techniques, and outcomes are presented for the conventional sternotomy, right mini-thoracotomy and robotic approaches. A subgroup analysis comparing only isolated MVr cases via sternotomy vs. right mini-thoracotomy was conducted using propensity score matching.

Results

Between 2013 and 2020, 799 patients were operated for native MVP at our institution, of which 761 (95.2%) received planned MVr (263 [34.6%] via mini-thoracotomy) and 38 (4.8%) received planned MV replacement. With increasing proportions of minimally invasive procedures (2014: 14.8%, 2020: 46.5%), we observed a continuous growth in overall institutional volume of MVP (n = 69 in 2013; n = 127 in 2020) and markedly improved institutional rates of successful MVr, with 95.4% in 2013 vs. 99.2% in 2020. Over this period, a higher complexity of cases were treated minimally-invasively and increased use of neochord implantation ± limited leaflet resection was observed. Patients operated minimally invasively had longer aortic cross-clamp times (94 vs. 88 min, p = 0.001) but shorter ventilation times (4.4 vs. 4.8 h, p = 0.002) and hospital stays (5 vs. 6 days, p < 0.001) than those operated via sternotomy, with no significant differences in other outcome variables. A total of 16 patients underwent robotically assisted MVr with successful repair in all cases.

Conclusion

A focused approach towards minimally invasive MVr has transformed the overall MVr strategy (incision; repair techniques) at our institution, leading to a growth in MVr volume and improved repair rates without significant complications. On this foundation, robotic MVr was first introduced at our institution in 2021 with excellent outcomes. This emphasizes the importance of building a competent team to perform these challenging operations, especially during the initial learning curve.

Early Discharge After Minimally Invasive Aortic and Mitral Valve Surgery

BACKGROUND

We investigated patient outcomes in relation to their postoperative length of stay after minimally invasive valve surgery.

METHODS

All adults who survived elective, uncomplicated minimally invasive aortic or mitral valve surgery at a single center between 2012 and 2019 were classified by postoperative length of stay: early discharge (≤3 days) or late discharge (>3 days). The trend in early discharge was investigated over the study period, predictors of early discharge were identified using multivariate logistic regression modeling, and 1:1 propensity score matching was used to determine which patients in the late-discharge cohort had similar health to patients discharged early. Adjusted outcomes of 30-day mortality, readmission, and direct costs were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 1262 consecutive patients undergoing minimally invasive valve surgery, 618 were elective and uncomplicated, 25% (n = 162) of whom were discharged early. The proportion of early-discharge patients increased over time (P for trend < .05). A history of congestive heart failure, stroke, or smoking and higher Society of Thoracic Surgeons predictive risk of mortality score negatively predicted early discharge (P < .05). Propensity score matching identified 101 (22%) late-discharge patients comparable with early-discharge patients. Adjusted 30-day mortality and readmission rates were comparable between cohorts. The median direct costs per patient ($20,046 vs $22,124, P < .05) were significantly lower in the early-discharge cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

In well-selected patients early discharge after minimally invasive valve surgery was associated with lower costs but comparable postoperative outcomes. About one-fifth of patients who remain in the hospital beyond postoperative day 3 may be candidates for earlier discharge.

Impact of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery on sexual dysfunction in male patients

Background

Sexual dysfunction after cardiac surgery can seriously affect patients’ quality of life, but the impact of cardiac surgery on sexual function has long been neglected. Compared with conventional cardiac surgery, minimally invasive cardiac surgery has the advantages of aesthetic appearance and no disruption of the sternal structure, which can greatly improve the patient's quality of life. However, studies focusing on the effects of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) on sexual function have not been reported. The objective of this research was to investigate the effects of totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery on health-related quality of life and sexual function in male patients and to provide possible recommendations.

Methods

Patients who underwent median sternotomy or totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery at our institution from January 2019 to December 2020 were selected using an electronic medical record system. Data were collected by questionnaires, including the MOS 36-item short-form health survey and the International Erectile Function Questionnaire.

Results

There were 156 male patients who participated in our study. Of these, 112 patients completed all questionnaires. Forty-five patients (40.18%) developed postoperative sexual dysfunction, including 15 patients (29.41%) in the MIMVS group and 30 patients (49.18%) in the conventional MVS group, indicating that the incidence of sexual dysfunction could be reduced by MIMVS and that the MIMVS group scored better on the International Erectile Function Questionnaire (P < 0.05). On the evaluation of health-related quality of life, the MIMVS group scored better than the MVS group on the mental health and bodily pain subscales of the MOS 36-item short-form health survey. In addition, our study showed that postoperative sexual dysfunction was associated with physical functioning and mental health.

Conclusions

In our study, totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery had less adverse effects on sexual function in male patients than conventional mitral valve surgery. In terms of health-related quality of life, totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery was superior to conventional surgery. Patients who opt for totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery may have a more satisfying and healthier sexual life than those who undergo conventional mitral valve surgery.

Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery After Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair

OBJECTIVE

Up to 28% of patients may need mitral valve (MV) surgery after transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER). This study evaluates the outcomes of minimally invasive MV surgery after TEER. Methods: International multicenter registry of minimally invasive MV surgery after TEER between 2013 and 2020. Subgroups were stratified by the number of devices implanted (≤1 vs >1), as well as time interval from TEER to surgery (≤1 year vs >1 year). Results: A total of 56 patients across 13 centers were included with a mean age of 73 ± 11 years, and 50% were female. The median Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality (STS PROM) score for MV replacement was 8% (Q1-Q3 = 5% to 11%) and the ratio of observed to expected mortality was 0.9. The etiology of mitral regurgitation (MR) prior to TEER was primary MR in 75% of patients and secondary MR in 25%. There were 30 patients (54%) who had >1 device implanted. The median time between TEER and surgery was 252 days (33 to 636 days). Hemodynamics, including MR severity, MV area, and mean gradient, significantly improved after minimally invasive surgery and sustained to 1-year follow-up. In-hospital and 30-day mortality was 7.1%, and 1-year actuarial survival was 85.6% ± 6%. Conclusions: Minimally invasive MV surgery after TEER may be achieved as predicted by the STS PROM. Most patients underwent MV replacement instead of repair. As TEER is applied more widely, patients should be informed about the potential need for surgical intervention over time after TEER. These discussions will allow better informed consent and post-procedure planning.

Upper Hemi-Sternotomy Provides Benefit for Patients with Isolated or Combined Mitral Valve Surgery

Background and objectives: Certain clinical and anatomical conditions are absolute or relative contraindications for safe mitral valve surgery via the right mini-thoracotomy access. It is uncertain whether patients with these contraindications may benefit from the less invasive approach via upper hemi-sternotomy compared to standard full sternotomy. Materials and methods: Out of 2052 mitral valve surgery patients, operated from 6/04 through 2/19, 1535 were excluded due to the different criteria for eligibility to both approaches. Out of these, 350 received full sternotomy and 167 upper hemi-sternotomy. After propensity score matching, 164 pairs were analyzed for operative variables, postoperative complications and 30-day and one-year survival. Results: Upper hemi-sternotomy was associated with a survival benefit of 30 days (99.4% vs. 82.1%; p < 0.001) and one-year (93.9% vs. 79.9% p < 0.001, HR 0.26, 95% CI 0.14–0.49). Cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times were comparable in both groups. Upper hemi-sternotomy resulted in less low cardiac output syndrome (18.9% vs. 31.1%; p = 0.011); ventilation time (8 vs. 13 h; p < 0.001), length of intensive care stay (1 vs. 2 days; p < 0.001) and total hospital stay (8 vs. 9 days; p < 0.001) were shorter in the upper hemi-sternotomy group. Conclusion: In patients undergoing mitral valve surgery, upper hemi-sternotomy is associated with short- and mid-term survival benefits as well as lower postoperative complication rates compared to full sternotomy. Hence, the less invasive upper hemi-sternotomy can be a valid approach in patients with contraindications for right mini-thoracotomy.

Outcomes of minimally invasive aortic valve replacement in patients with obese body mass indices

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive heart valve surgery has previously been shown to be safe and feasible in obese patients. Within this population, we investigated the effect of obesity class on the patient outcomes of minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (mini-AVR).

METHODS

A single-center retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients with obese body mass indices (BMIs) who underwent mini-AVR between 2012 and 2020. Patients were stratified into three groups according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adult obesity classifications: Class I (BMI: 30.0-<35.0), Class II (BMI: 35.0-<40.0), and Class III (BMI ≥ 40.0). The primary outcomes were postoperative length of stay (LOS), 30-day mortality, and direct cost.

RESULTS

Among 206 obese patients who underwent mini-AVR, LOS (Class I 5 [3-7] vs. Class II 6 [5-7] vs. Class III 6 [5-7] days; p = .056), postoperative 30-day mortality (Class I 2.44% [n = 3] vs. Class II 4.44% [n = 2] vs. Class III 7.89% [n = 3]; p = .200), and costs (Class I $24,118 [$20,237-$29.591] vs. Class II $22,215 [$18,492-$28,975] vs. Class III $24,810 [$20,245-$32,942] USD; p = .683) did not differ between obesity class cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Mini-AVR is safe and feasible to perform for obese patients regardless of their obesity class. Patients with obesity should be afforded the option of minimally invasive aortic valve surgery regardless of their obesity class.

Minimally Invasive and Robotic Mitral Valve Surgery: Methods and Outcomes in a 20-Year Review

In the mid- to late-1990s the cardiac surgery community began to apply limited incisions in mitral valve surgery. Ministernotomies and right-sided minithoracotomies were placed instead of the classic midline sternotomy. Adjunct technology such as videoscopy, advanced peripheral cannulation techniques, procedure specific long shafted surgical instruments, as well as surgical robots became available, and the procedures were refined in a stepwise fashion. In 2021, minimally invasive mitral valve repair is routine at many centers around the globe. We reviewed a total of 50 consecutive patient series published on the topic between 1999 and 2019. Three main versions of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery were applied in 20,539 patients. The surgical methods, their specific results, and the cumulative outcome of less invasive mitral valve surgery published over more than 20 years are reported and an integrated view on what less invasive mitral valve surgery can offer is presented.

Long-term results after mitral valve surgery using minimally invasive versus sternotomy approach: a propensity matched comparison of a large single-center series

BACKGROUND

Mitral valve (MV) surgery has traditionally been performed by conventional sternotomy (CS), but more recently minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has become another treatment option. The aim of this study is to compare short- and long-term results of MV surgery after CS and MIS.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective propensity-matched analysis of MV operations between January 2005 and December 2015.

RESULTS

Among 1357 patients, 496 underwent CS and 861 MIS. Matching resulted in 422 patients per group. The procedure time was longer with MIS than CS (192 vs. 185 min; p = 0.002) as was cardiopulmonary bypass time (133 vs. 101 min; p < 0.001) and X-clamp time (80 vs. 71 min; p < 0.001). 'Short-term' successful valve repair was higher with MIS (96.0% vs. 76.0%, p < 0.001). Length of hospital stay was shorter in MIS than CS patients (10 vs. 11 days; p = 0.001). There was no difference in the overall 30-day mortality rate. Cardiovascular death was lower after MIS (1.2%) compared with CS (3.8%; OR 0.30; 95%CI 0.11-0.84). The difference did not remain significant after adjustment for procedural differences (aOR 0.40; 95%CI 0.13-1.25). Pacemaker was required less often after MIS (3.3%) than CS (11.2%; aOR 0.31; 95%CI 0.16-0.61), and acute renal failure was less common (2.1% vs. 11.9%; aOR 0.22; 95%CI 0.10-0.48). There were no significant differences with respect to rates of stroke, myocardial infarction or repeat MV surgery. The 7-year survival rate was significantly better after MIS (88.5%) than CS (74.8%; aHR 0.44, 95%CI 0.31-0.64).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that good results for MV surgery can be obtained with MIS, achieving a high MV repair rate, low peri-procedural morbidity and mortality, and improved long-term survival.

Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery

There is considerable interest and demand in the application of minimally invasive techniques in cardiac surgery driven by multiple factors including patient cosmesis and satisfaction, reduction of surgical trauma and the development of specialized instrumentation that allows these procedures to be performed safely. Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) has been conducted for more than 25 years and has been shown to offer multiple benefits including better cosmetic results, enhanced post-operative recovery, improved patient satisfaction and most importantly, equivalent clinical outcomes with regards to quality and safety when compared to the standard sternotomy approach. MIMVS may be particularly beneficial in certain subgroups of patients, for example patients undergoing redo mitral valve surgery. In this article, we discuss patient selection criteria for MIMVS, the merits and drawbacks of MIMVS relative to conventional sternotomy approaches, and detail procedural aspects including anaesthetic management, intraoperative technique, and important considerations in myocardial protection and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). When considering developing a MIMVS programme, as for any new technique, a team approach to the introduction of the programme is essential. Although it is clear that patient selection is important, particularly early in a surgical programme, with experience complex repairs can be performed through a minimally invasive approach with excellent outcomes.

Selective right middle and lower lobar blockade for minimally invasive cardiac surgery: a prospective, single-center, randomized controlled study

Background

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) is increasingly performed due to faster recovery time and lower postoperative complications when compared with the traditional open surgery. However, hypoxemia in lung isolation duration after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery has been the focus of anesthesiologists' attention. In the present study, we designed a novel lung isolation strategy to improve oxygenation using a bronchial blocker (BB) to isolate the right middle and lower lobes and preserve the ventilated right upper lobe without affecting the surgical field.

Methods

Patients who had undergone right lateral mini-thoracotomy, a MICS, between August 2018 and February 2019, were enrolled in this randomized controlled study. Patients were randomly divided into a modified lung isolation group (group M) and a conventional lung isolation group (group C). In group M, BBs were used to block the bronchus intermedius, while left-sided double lumen endotracheal tubes were used in group C to isolate the right lung. The primary outcome was to determine the number of patients who required an increase in ventilation volume due to hypoxemia during lung isolation after CPB.

Results

Sixty-one patients (30 in group C and 31 in group M) were enrolled. Five patients in group M were converted to right lung isolation due to poor surgical field exposure. During lung isolation after CPB, the number of patients with hypoxemia was lower in group M than group C (5/31 vs. 15/30, P=0.005).

Conclusions

The novel modified lung isolation strategy reduced the incidence of hypoxemia after CPB.

Cost Analysis of Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery in the UK National Health Service

BACKGROUND

In the UK National Health Service, finite resources make the adoption of minimally invasive (MI) mitral valve surgery challenging unless greater operative costs (vs sternotomy [ST]) are balanced by postoperative savings. This study examined whether the cost analysis now became unfavorable.

METHODS

All patients (n = 380) undergoing isolated mitral valve surgery with or without a maze procedure over a 3-year period by either MI or ST approaches were included. Propensity matching (2 cohorts, 1:1 matched;, n = 75 per group) and multivariable regression were used to assess for the effect on cost. Cost data were prospectively collected from Service Line Reporting and reported in Sterling (£) as median (interquartile range [IQR]).

RESULTS

Matched data revealed that total hospital costs were equivalent (MI vs ST, £16,672 [IQR, £15,044, £20,611] vs £15,875 [IQR, £12,281, £20,687]; P .33). Three of 15 costing pools were significantly different: operative costs were higher for the MI group (MI vs ST, £7458 [IQR, £6738, £8286] vs £5596 iIQR, £4204, £6992]; P < .001), whereas ward costs (boarding, nursing) (MI vs ST, £1464 [IQR, £1146, £1864] vs £1733 [IQR, £1403, £2445] P = .006) and pharmacy services (MI vs ST, £187 [IQR, £140, £239] vs £244 [IQR, £179, £375] P < .001) were lower for the MI group. Hospital stay was shorter in the MI group (MI vs ST, 6 days [IQR, 5, 8 days] vs 8 days [IQR, 6, 11 days]; P < .001). Multivariable regression produced similar findings.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference in overall hospital cost between MI and ST mitral valve surgery: higher operative costs of MI surgery were offset by lower postoperative costs, with a 2-day shorter hospital stay.

Minimally invasive and transcatheter approaches for mitral valve surgery

Mitral valve surgery has evolved through the ages, in response to prevalent epidemiology of mitral pathologies. In the modern era, advances in technology has allowed physicians to help a wider spectrum on increasingly sicker patients. This review summarises these advances and its associated evidence base for safety and efficacy.

Minimally Invasive vs Open Coronary Surgery: A Multi-Institutional Analysis of Cost and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Limited multi-institutional data evaluating minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) outcomes have raised concern for increased resource utilization compared with standard sternotomy. The purpose of this study was to assess short-term outcomes and resource utilization with MICS CABG in a propensity-matched regional cohort.

METHODS

Isolated CABG patients (2012-2019) were extracted from a regional Society of Thoracic Surgeons database. Patients were stratified by MICS CABG vs open CABG via sternotomy, propensity-score matched 1:2 to balance baseline differences, and compared by univariate analysis.

RESULTS

Of 26,255 isolated coronary artery bypass graft patients, 139 MICS CABG and 278 open CABG patients were well balanced after matching. There was no difference in the operative mortality rate (2.2% open vs 0.7% MICS CABG, P = .383) or major morbidity (7.9% open vs 7.2% MICS CABG, P = .795). However, open CABG patients received more blood products (22.2% vs 12.2%, P = .013), and had longer intensive care unit (45 vs 30 hours, P = .049) as well as hospital lengths of stay (7 vs 6 days, P = .005). Finally, median hospital cost was significantly higher in the open CABG group ($35,011 vs $27,906, P < .001) compared with MICS CABG.

CONCLUSIONS

Open CABG via sternotomy and MICS CABG approaches are associated with similar, excellent perioperative outcomes. However, MICS CABG was associated with fewer transfusions, shorter length of stay, and ∼$7000 lower hospital cost, a superior resource utilization profile that improves patient care and lowers cost.

Minimally invasive mitral valve repair for functional mitral regurgitation

Systolic heart failure is frequently accompanied by a relevant functional mitral valve regurgitation (FMR) which develops as a direct sequela of the ongoing left ventricular remodelling. The severity of mitral regurgitation is further aggravated by progressive left ventricular enlargement causing leaflet tethering and reduced systolic leaflet movement. The prognosis of such patients is obviously limited by an underlying left ventricular disease, and the correction of secondary FMR has been previously suggested as predominantly ‘cosmetic’ surgery in the setting of ongoing cardiomyopathy. Inferior results of an isolated annuloplasty in type IIIb FMR supported the philosophy of malignant course of progressive cardiomyopathy and resulted in increasingly restricted indications for mitral valve surgery for FMR in the guidelines. The lack of a standardized pathophysiological approach to correct type IIIb FMR led to the development of valve replacement strategy and edge-to-edge catheter-based mitral valve procedures, which became the most frequent procedures in the FMR setting in Europe. Modern mitral valve surgery combines the advantages of 3-dimensional endoscopic minimally invasive surgical approach with standardized subannular repair to address the pathophysiological background of type IIIb FMR. The perioperative results have been significantly improved, and there is a growing evidence of improved long-term stability of subannular repair procedures as compared to isolated annuloplasty. This review article aims to present the current state-of-the-art of the modern mitral valve surgery in FMR and provides suggestions for future trials analysing the potential advantages in these patients.

Health-related quality of life following minimally invasive totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery

BACKGROUND

To compare the impact of two different types of mitral valve surgery on health-related quality of life, we conducted a retrospective study comparing modified totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery with median sternotomy mitral valve surgery.

METHODS

A total of 163 patients who underwent mitral valve surgery at our institution between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 were enrolled. For these 163 patients, mitral valve surgery was performed using either a modified totally endoscopic approach or median sternotomy approach. We used the numerical rating scale and the Scar Cosmesis Assessment and Rating Scale to measure pain intensity and the aesthetic appearance of the surgical incision and used the MOS 36-item Short-Form Health Survey to assess health-related quality of life.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients underwent the modified totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery, and eighty-five patients underwent the median sternotomy mitral valve surgery. The two groups of patients were similar in terms of demographics and echocardiography findings. The number of bioprosthetic valve replacements performed was significantly higher in the totally endoscopic group than in the median sternotomy group (p = 0.04), whereas the subvalvular apparatus was less preserved in only 33 cases in the totally endoscopic group (p = 0.01). The rate of postoperative adverse events was similar between the two groups. The pain was mild and aesthetic appearance was significantly better in the totally endoscopic approach group than in the sternotomy approach group. Significant differences in the scores for the bodily pain and mental health subscales of the MOS 36-item Short-Form Health Survey were found between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with median sternotomy mitral valve surgery, totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery has an equally good treatment effect, improving patient's health-related quality of life with a better cosmetic appearance and a lower pain intensity. Our study suggested that the totally endoscopic approach is superior to the median sternotomy approach in terms of pain intensity, aesthetic appearance and health-related quality of life.

Less Invasive Mitral Surgery Versus Conventional Sternotomy Stratified by Mitral Pathology

BACKGROUND

Our objective was to compare national mitral repair rates and outcomes after less invasive mitral surgery (LIMS) vs conventional sternotomy across the spectrum of mitral pathologies and repair techniques.

METHODS

Patients undergoing isolated primary mitral valve surgery in The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database from July 2014 to December 2018 were evaluated. Propensity score models were constructed nonparsimoniously, and prediction models used to compute adjusted effects of surgical approach. Hypothesis tests were adjusted for propensity score with inverse-probability weighting.

RESULTS

A total of 41,082 patients met inclusion criteria; comprising 10,238 (24.9%) LIMS and 30,844 (75.1%) conventional sternotomy, with increased LIMS adoption annually. Surgeons reporting LIMS cases had higher annual median mitral case volumes than those who did not (23 vs 8, P < .001). Groups were well-balanced after propensity adjustment including mitral pathology. Propensity score-adjusted outcomes showed increased procedural volume (odds ratio 1.030 [95% confidence interval: 1.028-1.031]) and LIMS (odds ratio 2.139 [95% confidence interval 2.032-2.251]) were independently associated with higher mitral repair rates. Propensity-adjusted outcomes included reduced stroke (P < .001), atrial fibrillation (P < .001), pacemaker (P < .001), renal failure (P < .001), and length of stay (P < .001) for LIMS vs sternotomy, without differences in mortality. Operative volume influenced outcomes in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

LIMS was associated with higher mitral repair rates, and lower morbidity. Further studies regarding the impact of surgeon volume on choice of operative approach are necessary.

Contemporary trends in mitral valve surgery in East China: a 10-year experience

Background

Contemporary nationwide data from mainland China on trends in mitral valve surgery are scarce. The purpose of the present study was to review a single-center experience with mitral valve surgery over a 10-year period in East China.

Methods

Between July 2009 and June 2019, 3238 consecutive patients who underwent mitral valve surgery in our center were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were evenly divided into three periods: July 2009 to October 2012 (period I), November 2012 to February 2016 (period II), March 2016 to June 2019 (period III).

Results

The 3238 patients included 536 (16.6%) who had mitral valve repair and 2702 (83.4%) who had mitral valve replacement. Early mortalities for mitral valve repair and mitral valve replacement were 0.2% and 0.9%, respectively. There were trends towards a higher proportion of degenerative valve lesions (24.6%, 35.8%, 54.7% in periods I, II, and III, respectively) and a lower proportion of rheumatic valve lesions (71.0%, 62.6%, 38.0%) in more recent years. The proportions of minimally invasive surgery (0.7%, 2.1%, 30.2%), mitral valve repair (8.3%, 15.4%, 27.5%), use of a bioprosthesis (10.1%, 17.0%, 23.1%), and concomitant tricuspid valve procedures (13.2%, 28.5%, 46.0%) increased dramatically, while early mortality remained constant during the 10-year period (1.0%, 0.3%, 0.9%).

Conclusions

In the past 10 years, the spectrum of mitral valve disease experienced a trend towards more degenerative valve lesions and less rheumatic valve lesions in East China. Mitral valve repair, bioprostheses, tricuspid valve repair, and minimally invasive surgery have been more often applied in recent years.

Early outcomes of mitral valvuloplasty by minimally invasive surgery or sternotomy

BACKGROUND

Disagreement exists regarding methods for repair of the mitral valve. We compared early outcomes of mitral valvuloplasty by a minimally invasive technique and by a median sternotomy.

METHODS

The data of 507 patients (mean age 47.9 ± 15.2 years) undergoing mitral valvuloplasty from January 2015 to June 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. In the study group (n = 225), mitral valvuloplasty via a totally thoracoscopic approach was performed by a single surgeon. In the control group (n = 282), mitral valvuloplasty via the traditional median sternotomy was carried out by other cardiac surgeons in our hospital. Clinical data, surgical results, and follow-up findings in the two groups were comparatively analyzed.

RESULTS

In the study group, the blood transfusion rate (5.3% vs. 20.9%, p < 0.05) and incidences of poor wound healing (0 vs. 5.3%, p < 0.05) and respiratory tract infection (4.4% vs. 16.3%, p < 0.05) were lower, and postoperative hospitalization was shorter (5.9 ± 4.0 vs. 10.7 ± 8.4 days, p < 0.05). Within 30 days after surgery, no patient died in the study group while one died in the control group. The duration of follow-up was 12-36 months (mean 22.9 ± 8.8 months). During follow-up, there were 1 and 0 cases of redo surgery and 1 and 3 deaths in the study group and control group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Mitral valvuloplasty via a minimally invasive approach is superior to the traditional median sternotomy in terms of early outcomes, especially when performed by experienced surgeons.

Twelve-month healthcare utilization and expenditures in Medicare fee-for-service patients with clinically significant mitral regurgitation

Aim: This study sought to quantify the healthcare burden of Medicare patients with clinically significant mitral regurgitation (sMR). Materials & methods: Proxy definitions were used for sMR, including MR surgery, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary hypertension or >2 echocardiograms. Results: In this study, 11,173 patients had significant degenerative MR (sDMR); 25,402 had significant functional MR (sFMR); and 12,232 had significant uncharacterized MR (sUMR). Patients with sFMR (18,880) were more likely to be hospitalized and present to the emergency department compared with patients with sDMR (9,795) or sUMR (10,587). Annual healthcare expenditures for sMR patients were: US$29,328 for sFMR; US$17,112 for sUMR; and US$12,870 for sDMR. Conclusion: Novel therapeutic interventions merit further evaluation to reduce the substantial healthcare burden of sMR in the Medicare population.

A propensity matched analysis of robotic, minimally invasive, and conventional mitral valve surgery

OBJECTIVES

Institutional studies suggest robotic mitral surgery may be associated with superior outcomes. The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of robotic, minimally invasive (mini), and conventional mitral surgery.

METHODS

A total of 2300 patients undergoing non-emergent isolated mitral valve operations from 2011 to 2016 were extracted from a regional Society of Thoracic Surgeons database. Patients were stratified by approach: robotic (n=372), mini (n=576) and conventional sternotomy (n=1352). To account for preoperative differences, robotic cases were propensity score matched (1:1) to both conventional and mini approaches.

RESULTS

The robotic cases were well matched to the conventional (n=314) and mini (n=295) cases with no significant baseline differences. Rates of mitral repair were high in the robotic and mini cohorts (91%), but significantly lower with conventional (76%, P<0.0001) despite similar rates of degenerative disease. All procedural times were longest in the robotic cohort, including operative time (224 vs 168 min conventional, 222 vs 180 min mini; all P<0.0001). The robotic approach had comparable outcomes to the conventional approach except there were fewer discharges to a facility (7% vs 15%, P=0.001) and 1 less day in the hospital (P<0.0001). However, compared with the mini approach, the robotic approach had more transfusions (15% vs 5%, P<0.0001), higher atrial fibrillation rates (26% vs 18%, P=0.01), and 1 day longer average hospital stay (P=0.02).

CONCLUSION

Despite longer procedural times, robotic and mini patients had similar complication rates with higher repair rates and shorter length of stay metrics compared with conventional surgery. However, the robotic approach was associated with higher atrial fibrillation rates, more transfusions and longer postoperative stays compared with minimally invasive approach.

Early and long-term results of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery through a right mini-thoracotomy approach: a retrospective propensity-score matched analysis

Background

Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MVS) via right mini-thoracotomy has recently attracted a lot of attention. Minimally invasive MVS shows postoperative results that are comparable to those of conventional MVS through the median sternotomy as per various earlier studies.

Methods

Between 2000 and 2016, a total of 669 isolated mitral valve procedures for isolated mitral valve regurgitation were performed. A propensity score-matched analysis was generated for the elimination of the differences in relevant preoperative risk factors between the cohorts and included 227 patient pairs. Only degenerative mitral valve regurgitation was included. The aim of our study was to examine if the minimally MVS is superior to the conventional approach through sternotomy based on a retrospective propensity-matched analysis. The primary endpoints were early mortality and long-term survival. The secondary endpoints included postoperative complications.

Results

The in-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher within the conventional sternotomy cohort (3.1%, n = 7 vs 0.4%, n = 1 for the minimally invasive cohort; p = 0.032). The incidence of stroke and exploration for bleeding was comparable. In contrast, the necessity for dialysis was significantly lower in the minimally invasive cohort (p = 0.044). Postoperative pain was not significantly lower in the minimally invasive MVS cohort (p = 0.862). While patients who underwent minimally invasive MVS experienced longer bypass and cross-clamp times, their lengths of stay in the intensive care unit and in the hospital, did not differ from the conventionally operated collective (p = 0.779 and p = 0.516), respectively. The mitral valve repair rate of 81.1% in the minimally invasive cohort was significantly superior to that of the conventional approach, which was 46.3% (p < 0.0001). The one-, five-, and 10-year survival rates were significantly higher in the minimally invasive cohort compared to the conventional approach (96%, 90%, and 84% vs. 89%, 85%, and 70%; log rank p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Despite prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping times, the minimally invasive MVS may be considered a safe approach that is equivalent to standard median sternotomy with lower early mortality and superior long-term survival.

Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery is associated with excellent resource utilization, cost, and outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (mini-MVR) has numerous associated benefits. However, many studies fail to include greater-risk patients. We hypothesized that a minimally invasive approach in a representative cohort provides excellent outcomes with reduced resource utilization.

METHODS

Mitral valve surgical records from 2011 to 2016 were paired with institutional financial records. Patients were stratified by approach and propensity-score matched to balance preoperative difference. The primary outcomes of interest were resource utilization including cost, discharge to a facility, and readmission.

RESULTS

A total of 478 patients underwent mitral surgery (21% mini-MVR) and were balanced after matching (n = 74 per group), with 18% of patients having nondegenerative mitral disease. Outcomes were excellent with similar rates of major morbidity (9.5% mini-MVR vs 10.8% conventional, P = .78). Mini-MVR cases had lower rates of transfusion (11% vs 27%, P = .01) and shorter ventilator times (3.7 vs 6.0 hours, P < .0001). Mean total hospital cost was equivalent ($49,703 vs $54,970, P = .235) with mini-MVR having lower ancillary ($1645 vs $2652, P = .001) and blood costs ($383 vs $1058, P = .001). These savings were offset by longer surgical times (291 vs 234 minutes, P < .0001) with greater surgical ($7645 vs $7293, P = .0001) and implant costs ($1148 vs $748, P = .03). Rates of discharge to a facility (9.6% vs 16.2%) and readmission (9.6% vs 4.1%) were not statistically different.

CONCLUSIONS

In a real-world cohort, mini-MVR continues to demonstrate excellent results with a favorable resource utilization profile. Greater surgical and implant costs with mini-MVR are offset by decreased transfusions and ancillary needs leading to equivalent overall hospital cost.

Mitral repair and the robot: a revolutionary tool or marketing ploy?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review, we discuss the current evidence supporting each minimally invasive mitral repair approach and their associated controversies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current evidence demonstrates that minimally invasive mitral repair techniques yield similar mitral repair results to conventional sternotomy with the benefits of shorter hospital stay, quicker recovery, better cosmesis and improved patient satisfaction. Despite this, broad adoption of minimally invasive mitral repair is still not achieved. Two main approaches of minimally invasive mitral repair exist: endoscopic mini-thoracotomy and robotic-assisted approaches.

SUMMARY

Both minimally invasive approaches share many commonalities; however, most centres are strongly polarized to one approach over another creating controversy and debate about the most effective minimally invasive approach.

Traditional Sternotomy Versus Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients Stratified by Ejection Fraction

OBJECTIVE

Low ejection fraction (EF < 40%) portends adverse outcomes in patients undergoing valvular heart surgery. The role of traditional median sternotomy aortic valve replacement (SAVR) compared with minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (MIAVR) in this cohort remains incompletely understood.

METHODS

A multi-institutional retrospective review of 1503 patients who underwent SAVR (n = 815) and MIAVR via right anterior thoracotomy (n = 688) from 2011 to 2014 was performed. Patients were stratified into two groups: EF of less than 40% and EF of 40% or more. In each EF group, SAVR and MIAVR patients were propensity matched by age, sex, body mass index, race, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, dialysis, cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular accident, peripheral vascular disease, last creatinine level, EF, previous MI and cardiogenic shock, and the Society for Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score.

RESULTS

Among patients with an EF of 40% or more (377 pairs), patients who underwent MIAVR compared with SAVR had decreased intensive care unit hours (56.8% vs 84.6%, P < 0.001), postoperative length of stay (7.1 vs 7.9 days, P = 0.04), incidence of atrial fibrillation (18.8% vs 38.7%, P < 0.001), bleeding (0.8% vs 3.2%, P = 0.04), and a trend toward decreased 30-day mortality (0.3% vs 1.3%, P = 0.22). The STS scores were largely equivalent in patients undergoing MIAVR compared with SAVR (2.4% vs 2.6%, P = 0.09). In patients with an EF of less than 40% (35 pairs), there was no difference in intensive care unit hours (69% vs 72.6%, P = 0.80), postoperative length of stay (10.3 vs 7.2 days, P = 0.13), 30-day mortality (3.8% vs 0.8%, P = 0.50), or the STS score (3.3% vs 3.2%, P = 0.68).

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive aortic valve replacement in patients with preserved EF was associated with improved short-term outcomes compared with SAVR. In patients with left ventricular dysfunction, short-term outcomes between MIAVR and SAVR are largely equivalent.

Myocardial protection during minimally invasive cardiac surgery through right mini-thoracotomy

BACKGROUND

Myocardial damage is an independent predictor of adverse outcome following cardiac surgery and myocardial protection is one of the key factors to achieve successful outcomes. Cardioplegia with Custodiol is currently the most used cardioplegia during minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS). Different randomized controlled trials compared blood and Custodiol cardioplegia in the context of traditional cardiac surgery. No data are available for MICS.

AIM

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of cold blood versus Custodiol cardioplegia during MICS.

METHOD

We retrospectively evaluated 90 patients undergoing MICS through a right mini-thoracotomy in a three-year period. Myocardial protection was performed using cold blood (44 patients, CBC group) or Custodiol (46 patients, Custodiol group) cardioplegia, based on surgeon preference and complexity of surgery.

RESULTS

The primary outcomes were post-operative cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and creatine kinase MB (CKMB) serum release and the incidence of Low Cardiac Output Syndrome (LCOS). Aortic cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times were higher in the Custodiol group. No difference was observed in myocardial injury enzyme release (peak cTnI value was 18±46 ng/ml in CBC and 21±37 ng/ml in Custodiol; p=0.245). No differences were observed for mortality, LCOS, atrial or ventricular arrhythmias onset, transfusions, mechanical ventilation time duration, intensive care unit and total hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Custodiol and cold blood cardioplegic solutions seem to assure similar myocardial protection in patients undergoing cardiac surgery through a right mini-thoracotomy approach.