Mini AVR & Mini MVR

Mini AVR

What is Mini AVR?
For patients with Aortic Valve Stenosis or Aortic Regurgitation, aortic valve replacement may be necessary to treat these conditions and their symptoms. Mini-AVR stands for minimally invasive aortic valve replacement with minimal incision and minimal trauma.

How does it work?
Traditionally an aortic valve is replaced by means of a median sternotomy: a 10- to 12-inch vertical inline incision along the sternum, after which the sternum itself is opened. In mini-AVR, the surgeon makes a 2- to 3-inch incision between the ribs on the right chest.  The artificial valve is sutured in place using the parachute technique.

Results and Expectations
Compared with patients undergoing aortic valve replacement with a median sternotomy, Mini-AVR offers more than just cosmetic advantages. Patients experience less pain after surgery, allowing improved respiratory function in the immediate postoperative period. Patients will spend less time on the heart-lung machine and a shorter ventilation period. There is less blood loss and less blood transfusion requirements. Patients can expect shorter stays in the intensive therapy department, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery and faster resumption of normal activities.

Mini MVR

What is Mini MVR?

For patients with Mitral Valve Stenosis or Mitral Regurgitation, mitral valve repair may be necessary to treat these conditions and their symptoms. Mini-MVR stands for minimally invasive mitral valve repair with minimal incision and minimal trauma.

How does it work?

During traditional MVR, a cardiothoracic surgeon makes a 6- to 8-inch long incision down the center of the sternum (breastbone) to open the chest and provide direct access to the heart. In mini-MVR, the surgeon makes a 2- to 3-inch incision between the ribs on the right chest (under the breast where the incision can be well hidden) or in the midline.

Results and Expectations

Mini MVR has definite benefits for the patient not only in cosmetic appearance but also in regards to reduced pain, reduced blood loss and need for transfusions and better breathing ability after surgery with no apparent downside. Patients can expect shorter hospital stays, faster recovery and faster resumption of normal activities. In most cases, hospital stays average between three and four days a er minimally-invasive mitral valve repairs compared to six or more days with standard approaches.