Aortic Valve Replacement Through Right Minithoracotomy: Is it Really Biologically Minimally Invasive?

Our initial series confirms that aortic valve replacement performed through a right mini-thoracotomy is a safe procedure. When using running sutures, it is possible to obtain cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping times comparable to those for the standard approach. A central cannulation can be performed easily to avoid groin incisions. In conclusion, we believe that this kind of surgery could really be a biologically minimally invasive approach, rather than just an aesthetic choice.