A special adapted retractor for the mini-sternotomy approach.

ABSTRACT

Minimally invasive cardiac operations are now possible through different approaches. To provide the best exposure and sufficient space to manipulate the heart, a special adapted thoracic retractor has been developed for the ministernotomy approach. It is universally adjustable and provides excellent and consistent exposure especially below the incision edges. The retractor has the further advantage of a very low profile on the surgeon's side and at the cephalic and caudal extremes of the operative field, which permits the greatest possible access through a limited access. We have successfully used this retractor in more than 180 patients. A less invasive median sternotomy through a 6-9-cm incision has been our original approach.