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Surgical Approach

Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery

Heart surgery performed through smaller incisions — typically 3–4 inches — resulting in less trauma, less pain, and faster recovery.

About This Procedure

What is minimally invasive heart surgery?

Minimally invasive heart surgery allows surgeons to operate on the heart through a smaller chest incision. Traditional open-heart surgery requires an 8–10 inch incision in the sternum; minimally invasive surgery uses a much smaller 3–4 inch incision. As a result, there are typically fewer complications and a shorter recovery time. Because the incision is smaller, minimally invasive heart surgery results in less trauma and lower blood loss. Not every patient is a candidate — your physician will evaluate your situation to determine the best approach for your goals and overall health.

Who Is a Candidate ?

Procedures we can perform with a minimally invasive approach.

  • Aortic valve replacement

    Including TAVR for high-risk patients.

  • Mitral or tricuspid valve repair/replacement

    Smaller incision approach to valve work.

  • Atrial septal defects

    Repair of congenital holes between heart chambers.

  • Ascending aortic aneurysm repair

    Minimally invasive option for select aortic aneurysms.

  • TREATMENT

    Robotic

    Surgeon-controlled robotic technology that enables greater precision through smaller incisions for select cardiac and thoracic procedures.

    Learn More

The Process

How minimally invasive heart surgery is performed.

  • STEP 01

    Pre-op evaluation

    Imaging and assessment to confirm minimally invasive approach is appropriate.

  • STEP 02

    Smaller-incision procedure

    3–4 inch incision used to perform the operation with less trauma and blood loss.

  • STEP 03

    Faster recovery

    Shorter hospital stay and quicker return to normal activities.