A minimally invasive approach to mitral valve surgery uses small chest incisions and thin instruments to reach the heart. This approach allows the surgical team to access the valve between the ribs, without needing to open the breastbone, which often leads to a quicker and more comfortable recovery than in surgeries where the chest is opened.
In order to see the mitral valve clearly, your surgeon may look directly at the heart through the main incision, sometimes using magnifying glasses for precision. This is called direct vision valve surgery. Another common approach is to insert a tiny camera, or endoscope, through a small hole or incision called a port, allowing the surgeon to view the valve on a screen. This approach is called endoscopic valve surgery.
The choice between endoscopic and direct vision minimally invasive mitral valve surgery depends on your specific anatomy, the details of your heart condition, and the expertise of your surgical team. Both methods are minimally invasive and aim to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes, and your care team will recommend the safest and most effective option for you.