title: Minimally invasive cardiac surgery: surgical techniques and nursing considerations.
abstract: Coronary artery bypass grafting is a well-established procedure. Less invasive procedures have been developed to provide bypass grafting without median sternotomy, cardiopulmonary bypass, or cross clamping. Using a small anterior thoracic incision, and occasionally with the aid of the thoracoscope, the minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass graft (MIDCAB) procedure was developed. The MIDCAB procedure results in a decreased length of hospital stay, fewer postoperative complications, and a more rapid recovery for the patient. The MIDCAB, however, has other ramifications, including changes in staffing requirements, bed allocations, and staff training. Advantages and limitations are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Baptist Medical Center, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Daniel
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Dattolo
mesh_terms: D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing*; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D003422:Critical Care; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing*; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D011182:Postoperative Care