Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery

Like many other surgical specialties, cardiac surgery is evolving toward more minimally invasive approaches. Mitral valve surgery has been shown to be feasible and safe when performed through smaller incisions or with the aid of robotic manipulation. Recent technologic advances allow complex mitral valve reconstruction to be carried out through these small incisions with avoidance of a full sternotomy and its untoward effects on pain and blood loss. Percutaneous mitral valve repair has been in development for some years and has begun to show promise for certain lesions. Finally, completely percutaneous mitral valve replacement also is beginning to evolve. This review assesses the status of various minimally invasive mitral valve approaches, including robotic techniques, and speculates about forthcoming advances. © 2008 Current Medicine Group LLC.