Work

Navigating anatomical challenges of minimally invasive mitral valve replacement in a patient with severe scoliosis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Minimally invasive mitral surgery is increasingly preferred due to reduced trauma and faster recovery. However, its technical complexity is exacerbated in patients with anatomical anomalies like scoliosis, affecting up to 8.3% of the elderly population. Severe scoliosis causes significant thoracic distortion and alters the positioning of cardiovascular structures, complicating access, visualization, and instrumentation. These factors make minimally invasive mitral valve replacement more complex, as this approach relies on optimal exposure of the mitral valve through a limited incision. We present the case of a 71-year-old female with severe scoliosis undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve replacement with a mechanical prosthesis and septal myectomy. Access was achieved via a 5 cm right mini-thoracotomy in the second intercostal space. This case report discusses the surgical challenges encountered and the unique considerations and adjustments required in performing cardiac surgery in patients with altered thoracic anatomy, and the importance of preoperative assessment and intraoperative flexibility.

Source: Journal of Surgical Case Reports

DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjaf369

Authors: Henri Bartolozzi, Edward Bartolozzi, Darragh Rice, Ronan J Kelly, Mattia Glauber

Institutions: Trakia University, University Hospital Galway

Language: English

Topic: Cardiac Valve Diseases and Treatments

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,000