Advantages of Underarm (Minimally Invasive) Aortic Valve Replacement
Minimally invasive aortic valve replacement, especially when performed through small incisions under the armpit, offers numerous advantages.
Smaller Incisions
- Less Surgical Trauma: Small incisions made under the armpit cause less tissue damage compared to traditional open-heart surgery.
- Lower Risk of Bleeding: Smaller incisions reduce the risk of blood loss during and after surgery.
Less Pain
- Quick Pain Control: Smaller and minimally invasive incisions result in less postoperative pain, reducing the need for painkillers.
Shorter Hospital Stay
- Quicker Discharge: Patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery are typically discharged sooner, usually within 3-6 days.
- Faster Recovery: A shorter hospital stay enables the recovery process to begin at home earlier.
Faster Recovery and Return to Daily Life
- Short Recovery Time: Minimally invasive surgeries promote faster healing, helping patients return to their normal lives more quickly.
- Fewer Physical Limitations: Postoperative physical restrictions are fewer, allowing patients to resume daily activities sooner.
Aesthetic Advantages
- Smaller Scars: Incisions made under the armpit leave smaller and less noticeable scars compared to large incisions made over the sternum.
- Less Cosmetic Concern: This reduces cosmetic worries, boosting patients’ self-confidence after surgery.
Lower Risk of Infection
- Smaller Incisions and Less Tissue Damage: Smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection, minimizing postoperative complications and speeding up the healing process.
- Faster Psychological Recovery: Patients return to social life faster, helping them overcome the psychological effects of illness sooner.
Suitable for High-Risk Patients
- Elderly and Frail Patients: Minimally invasive techniques are particularly suitable for elderly and frail patients. Being less invasive, they are safer for these individuals.
- Patients with High Surgical Risk: This method can also be a suitable option for patients with a high surgical risk.
Conclusion
Underarm (minimally invasive) aortic valve replacement is a surgical approach offering numerous advantages. Factors like less pain, faster recovery, smaller scars, and lower infection risk make this method more appealing than traditional open-heart surgery. However, your heart and vascular surgeon will determine if this procedure is suitable for you. Therefore, it is important to discuss your surgical options thoroughly with your doctor.
