Minimally invasive surgery is a surgical technique performed through smaller incisions. With this method, the heart is accessed through a small incision made in the armpit. As this method carries less risk, it is attracting more interest from patients.
Is it possible to intervene on the aortic and tricuspid valves as well as the mitral valve using the minimally invasive method?
Yes, it is possible to intervene on the aortic and tricuspid valves of the heart along with minimally invasive mitral valve intervention, but these procedures can only be performed by surgeons who are skilled in minimally invasive cardiac surgery. Your doctor will assess your condition to determine whether this method is suitable for you. Factors such as your age, general health, and whether you have coronary heart disease are taken into account.
This is because repairing or replacing the mitral, aortic, and tricuspid valves simultaneously usually requires complex surgical intervention.
Performing the Surgery
Making the Incision: In minimally invasive surgery, an incision of 6-8 cm is usually made in the armpit. This incision provides access to the heart through the ribs. The surgeon performs the surgery using special surgical instruments through these small incisions.
Mitral Valve Intervention: First, mitral valve repair or replacement is performed. The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and left ventricle and prevents blood from flowing backwards. If there are problems with the mitral valve, such as narrowing (stenosis) or leakage (regurgitation), these problems are corrected. If mitral valve repair is not possible, the valve is replaced with a prosthesis.
Aortic Valve Intervention: Following mitral valve intervention, the aortic valve is addressed. The aortic valve controls the passage of blood from the left ventricle into the aorta. If there is narrowing or insufficiency in the aortic valve, this valve is repaired or replaced. Replacement of the aortic valve is usually performed using biological or mechanical valves.
Tricuspid Valve Intervention: Finally, the tricuspid valve is addressed. The tricuspid valve is located between the right atrium and right ventricle and prevents blood from flowing backwards. If there is stenosis or insufficiency in the tricuspid valve, this valve is also repaired or replaced. Tricuspid valve repair is usually performed using special suture techniques. Repair is preferred over replacement of the tricuspid valve.
Intervention on all three valves at the same time depends on the surgeon’s experience. In experienced hands, intervention on all three valves via a minimal axillary incision is no different from open surgery and offers greater comfort for the patient. Thanks to minimally invasive surgical techniques, patients recover more quickly and experience fewer complications. However, each patient’s situation is different, and your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment method for you.
