Strategies and pitfalls during minimally invasive total coronary artery revascularization via left anterior minithoracotomy: a promising future

Abstract

For many years up to date coronary artery bypass surgery has been performed via sternotomy as a gold standard approach. However recently there has been alternative approaches for coronary artery bypass grafting in minimal invasive ways to reduce complications associated with sternotomy such as sternal wound infections, impared pulmonary functions and cosmetic related problems. Most of these minimal invasive procedures have been associated with long learning curve, high costs and sophiscated instruments used during surgery. Minimal invasive coronary artery bypass grafting via left anterior mini-thoracotomy is equally effective as a gold standard sternotomy with the same principles of suturing techniques and provides a great comfort in many aspects as sternotomy. It is safe and does not require sophiscated tools which require long learning curve and high expanses. This type of surgery requires the use of novel strategies, especially in patients who hold the highest potential for postoperative morbidity. In this paper, we will highlight the strategies and pitfalls associated with minimally invasive total coronary revascularization via left anterior minithoracotomy.