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What is minimally invasive heart surgery?

Minimally invasive heart surgery is a term for heart procedures performed through one or more small cuts (incisions). In contrast, open-heart surgeries typically use one long incision down the front of your chest.

Surgeons insert small, high-powered cameras, tools or robotic arms through the incisions. The surgeon guides the tools between your ribs to access your heart. Minimally invasive techniques may offer less scarring, reduced pain and faster healing than open-heart surgeries. Open-heart surgeries typically involve cutting through your breastbone (sternum) to reach your heart.


What are the types of minimally invasive heart surgery?


There are two main types of minimally invasive heart surgery:

  • Thoracoscopic surgery: Your surgeon makes one or more small incisions in the side of your chest. They insert a long tube with a video camera (thoracoscope) through the incisions to view your heart. They operate using long, thin tools.
  • Robotically assisted heart surgery: Your surgeon makes one or more small incisions in the side of your chest. They guide robotic arms through the incisions. The robot shows clear images of your heart, and your surgeon controls the robotic arms to perform the procedure.


What is minimally invasive heart surgery used for?

Surgeons may use minimally invasive techniques for a variety of surgeries, including:


  • Atrial septal defect (ASD) closure.
  • Atrioventricular canal defect surgery.
  • Cardiac tumor removal.
  • Coronary artery bypass surgery.
  • Maze procedure for atrial fibrillation.
  • Patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure.
  • Valve repairs or replacements, including minimally invasive mitral valve repair.
  • Ventricular assist device placement.