Minimally invasive tricuspid operation using port access.
BACKGROUND
Port-access techniques performed through a right mini-thoracotomy have been extensively described for both the mitral and aortic valves. However, reports of tricuspid valve operations using the port-access approach are rare. A technique for minimally invasive tricuspid valve operation using port access is described.


METHODS
Port-access approach was applied to 33 consecutive patients undergoing tricuspid valve repair or replacement.


RESULTS
Twelve percent (4 of 33) underwent tricuspid replacement and 88% underwent repair (28 of 33). Perioperative mortality was 6% (2 of 33) and conversion to median sternotomy was 3% (1 of 33).


CONCLUSIONS
Port-access tricuspid operations are both feasible and safe with a low conversion rate to conventional median sternotomy.
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
Alan P
AP
Kypson
Donald D
DD
Glower
D000368:Aged; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006349:Heart Valve Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; D013908:Thoracotomy; D014261:Tricuspid Valve