Innovations and Developments in Totally Thoracoscopic Cardiac Procedures

Abstract

New technology is increasing being introduced to minimizing the invasiveness of cardiac surgery. In addition to catheter based interventions and robotic-assisted procedures, totally thoracoscopic cardiac surgery (TTCS) has emerged as a new minimally invasive technique in the cardiac surgeons' armamentarium to treat cardiovascular disease. This review summarizes the existing literature on TTCS and provides updates on the exploration and management of TTCS in various cardiac diseases including mitral and tricuspid valve dysfunction, congenital heart defects, tumors, and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Due to small port incisions and high cost-effectiveness, TTCS has been increasingly embraced by both patients and surgeons. This review summarizes the literature on TTCS and how it may minimize the morbidity associated with open cardiac surgical procedures and result in faster recovery and earlier discharge from the hospital.