Minithoracotomy

Although cardiac surgery is still predominantly performed via median sternotomy, an increasing number of procedures are now being carried out under minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) and, in particular, under minithoracotomy. The American Heart Association (AHA) defines minimally invasive cardiac surgery as any procedure conducted through a “small chest wall incision that does not involve the traditional full sternotomy.” Due to the potential benefits offered to patients by MICS and minithoracotomy approach, these procedures are becoming more common. Specialized anesthetic expertise is essential to address the unique challenges posed by minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS), which include proficiency in transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and delivery of thoracic regional analgesia. This review assesses the significance of MICS for anesthetists and covers preoperative evaluation, necessary intraoperative technique modifications, postoperative care, and current knowledge on outcomes.