Biatrial inferior transseptal approach to the mitral valve.

ABSTRACT

The standard surgical approach to the mitral valve is via a longitudinal incision in the left atrium. This is applicable in the vast majority of patients. In cases of small left atrium with poor exposure the standard incision may be modified. We report a biatrial inferior transseptal approach that we have employed in 25 patients over a 2-year period. The technique is simple to execute and is without risk to surrounding structures.