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Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

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Quick facts

Treatment type Minimally invasive cardiac surgery

Incision About 2-6 cm on the side of the chest

Hospital stay 1-2 days

Return to activities 3-4 weeks, full recovery 6-8 weeks

What is it

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery is performed through small incisions using specialised instruments and advanced technology. It reduces trauma to the body while providing high-quality surgical results.

Why it is done

Minimally invasive techniques can offer an alternative to traditional open-heart surgery for selected patients, with smaller incisions, less pain and faster recovery.

Who needs it

Coronary artery disease Mitral, aortic or tricuspid valve disease Atrial septal defect Benign heart tumours such as myxoma Other selected cardiac conditions The heart team decides whether minimally invasive surgery is suitable, based on your condition and anatomy.

Types and options

Minimally invasive coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) Minimally invasive heart valve repair or replacement Minimally invasive atrial septal defect closure Minimally invasive myxoma removal Other selected cardiac procedures

Tests before treatment

Medical history and symptoms Cardiac imaging Echocardiography CT or other imaging tests Heart and lung function Overall surgical risk Suitability for minimally invasive surgery

How it is done

A small incision, typically around 2-6 cm, is made on the side of the chest rather than a long breastbone incision. Specialised instruments and a high-definition camera are used to reach and operate on the heart.

Recovery

One to two days in hospital. Light activities at home in one to two weeks. A gradual return to normal activities at three to four weeks, with full recovery continuing over six to eight weeks. Recovery time varies with the procedure and the patient. Smaller incisions usually mean less discomfort, faster healing, a shorter hospital stay, an earlier return to activity and smaller scars.

Benefits and outcomes

Smaller incisions - less pain and minimal scarring Faster recovery - an earlier return to normal activities Less blood loss - a lower chance of needing a transfusion Better lung function - less impact on breathing Lower risk of infection - less exposure and faster healing Better cosmetic results - smaller, less noticeable scars

Risks and complications

Bleeding Infection Blood clots Heart rhythm problems Anaesthesia-related complications Injury to surrounding structures Conversion to traditional surgery when required The heart team evaluates individual risks and selects the safest approach.

Preparing to travel

Complete the required cardiac tests and imaging Review your medical history and medications Undergo pre-operative and anaesthesia assessment Confirm that minimally invasive surgery is appropriate for you

How it is done

1
Small incision
A small incision, typically around 2-6 cm, is made on the side of the chest rather than using a long breastbone incision.
2
Specialised instruments
Specialised surgical instruments and a high-definition camera are used to reach the heart.
3
Precise surgery
The surgeon performs the required cardiac procedure using advanced technology and specialised instruments.
4
Smaller closure
The incision is carefully closed with stitches to minimise scarring and discomfort.
5
Faster recovery
Smaller incisions may result in less pain and a faster recovery.
6
Back to life
Patients gradually return to their normal activities as recovery progresses.

Where you can have this

No hospital listed for this yet.Tell us where you are and what you need, and we will find one. Submit request

What it costs

What changes the price

Type of cardiac procedure Surgical technique used Hospital selected Surgeon and cardiac team Diagnostic investigations Length of hospital stay Your medical condition Additional treatments required