Less invasive cardiac operations through a median sternotomy: 100 consecutive cases.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In the beginning of 1997, we developed a routine approach to intracardiac operations through a less invasive median sternotomy. A limited (6 to 9 cm) median skin incision followed by a subcomplete (manubrium and body) median sternotomy makes opening and closing of the chest easier; conventional central cardiopulmonary bypass is instituted, and no modifications to the surgical techniques are necessary. METHODS: In 100 consecutive patients (mean age, 62.04 years; range, 9 to 92 years), 70 aortic, 13 mitral, and 17 other cardiac procedures were performed. Surgical technique required many self-made instruments; anesthetic "fast-tracking" management was performed. RESULTS: Four patients died. One conversion to a standard sternotomy and five reoperations for bleeding were necessary. Cross-clamp time ranged from 33 to 140 minutes (mean +/- standard deviation, 69.23 +/- 20.99 minutes) and total drainage loss ranged from 120 to 1,800 mL x m(-2) x 24 h(-1) (mean, 288 mL x m(-2) x 24 h(-1)). The postoperative course was shorter than usual, and one complication in the healing wound was observed. The scar was shorter than 9 cm in all patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our work shows that a less invasive approach to many cardiac operations is possible through a modified median sternotomy. This technique provides many potential and practical advantages there is less trauma and pain reported by patients, and the small wound reduces the risk of infection and blood loss. Patients are extubated and discharged from the hospital earlier.