Thoracotomy Approach Research Articles

Comparing the safety and effectiveness of surgical approaches in thymectomy

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the safety and effectiveness of different surgical approaches in thymectomy: robotics, subxiphoid, lateral video‐assisted thoracoscopy surgery (LVATS) and open.MethodologyWe retrospectively reviewed 68 cases of thymectomy with a robot‐assisted, subxiphoid, LVATS, open sternotomy or thoracotomy approach for thymic lesions or myasthenia gravis between July 2017 and May 2023 at a single centre. Peri‐operative outcomes (operating time, estimated blood loss, conversion rates, R0 resection, adverse events and length of stay [LOS]) were collected.ResultsWe observed six conversions to open (from five LVATS and one robot assisted). The median estimated blood loss was lower for LVATS (100.00 [50.0–100.0] mL) compared with open thymectomies (200.0 [150.0–400.0]; P < .001). No intra‐operative adverse events were reported in the robotics, subxiphoid or LVATS groups. In patients with thymic tumours (n = 34), R0 resection was achieved in 100% (2/2) of robotics, 83% of subxiphoid (5/6), 93% (13/14) of LVATS and 75% (n = 9/12) of open cases. The median LOS was shortest for robot assisted (1.0 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.0–3.0]), then subxiphoid (2.0 [IQR 1.0–3.0]), LVATS (2.0 [IQR 1.0–3.0]) then open (5.0 [IQR 4.0–6.0]; P < .001).ConclusionsOur results suggest that with a shorter LOS, robotics, subxiphoid and LVATS thymectomies are safe. Larger size studies are required to compare R0 resection rates between these less invasive surgical approaches.

The roles and outcomes of surgery in large anterior mediastinal tumors

Introduction: Large anterior mediastinal tumors are rare and encompass a wide diversity of neoplasms. The anatomical complexity of large mediastinal tumors poses clinical challenges in term of surgical feasibility, tumor resectability, and disease curability. Due to the rarity of this clinical entity, very few studies have been conducted on large mediastinal tumors. Here, we describe the surgical approach and outcomes of surgery for large mediastinal tumors. Method: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with large anterior mediastinal tumors who underwent biopsy and surgical resection at our center from January 2018 to December 2020. Results: A total of 87 patients were referred for anterior mediastinal tumors, and 42 of them (48.3%) had tumors larger than 8 cm. The average age was 36.4 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 4:6. The average tumor size was 13.2 cm. Twenty-six patients (61.9%) underwent surgical biopsy; 16 of them were diagnosed with lymphoma, and another 10 patients had nonlymphoma tumors. Complete surgical resection was performed on 24 patients (57.1%). Surgical biopsies were performed using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (61.5 %) and the Chamberlain procedure (38.5%). Surgical resection was performed with median sternotomy (66.7%), thoracotomy (20.8%), and hemiclamshell approach (12.5%). There were no immediate postoperative mortality. Conclusion: This series has shown the clinical feasibility of definitive surgical management for large mediastinal tumors, with positive clinical outcomes. Given the rarity of large mediastinal tumors, detailed preoperative preparation with multimodal imaging and multidisciplinary team discussion are essential for favorable surgical outcomes.

Comparative Analysis of Short-Term Outcomes of Anatomical Lung Resections Using Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery and Thoracotomy Approaches

Objective: To analyze short-term outcomes of anatomical lung resections using video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and thoracotomy approaches.Materials and methods: Our retrospective study included 530 patients who underwent surgery for various lung diseases in the thoracic surgery unit of City Multidisciplinary Hospital No. 2 (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation) between 2014 and 2021. The patients were grouped based on the surgical approach: group 1 for patients who underwent VATS (n = 378), group 2 for patients who underwent thoracotomy (n = 120), and group 3 for patients who underwent conversion from VATS to thoracotomy (n = 32).Results: Tumor size, paranodal and peribronchial changes were unfavorable prognostic factors for conversion from VATS to thoracotomy (odds ratio [OR] = 1.032, CI: 1.013-1.051, P < .001; OR = 4.416, CI: 2.100-9.283, P < .0005; OR = 3.109, CI: 1.496-6.462, P < .002). Patients from group 1 and group 3 mostly had minor complications, whereas 32 patients (53%) from group 2 developed grade III-V complications according to Thoracic Morbidity and Mortality classification system. High Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), thoracotomy approach, emphysematous changes, adhesions, and absence of interlobar fissures were independent unfavorable prognostic factors for complications in the early postoperative period (OR = 1.665, CI: 1.031-2.691, P < .05; OR = 1.874, CI: 1.1433.070, P < .05; OR = 1.8803, CI: 1.126-2.888, P < .05; OR = 1.548, CI: 1.010-2.370, P < .05; OR = 1.612, CI: 1.053-2.466, P < .05).Conclusions: VATS is an effective and safe approach for anatomical lung resection. Tumor size above 40 mm, significant paranodal and peribronchial changes were risk factors for conversion from VATS to thoracotomy. CCI above 5, thoracotomy approach, emphysematous changes, adhesions, and absence of interlobar fissures were independent unfavorable prognostic factors for complications in the early postoperative period.

Totally endoscopic concomitant aortic and mitral valve surgery in junctional epidermolysis bullosa: a case report

BackgroundJunctional epidermolysis bullosa is a rare skin and mucosal disorder characterized by blister formation in response to minor trauma and extracutaneous manifestations. There have been no reports of cardiac surgery and prognostication in patients with epidermolysis bullosa due to skin and mucosal fragility.Case presentationA 55-year-old man presented with congenital junctional epidermolysis bullosa, hypertension, and vasospastic angina. He complained of dyspnea on exertion, and transthoracic echocardiography revealed severe aortic valve regurgitation, moderate aortic valve stenosis (tricuspid valve), and severe mitral valve regurgitation. Considering that the skin condition in the right chest wall was relatively healthy, the right thoracotomy approach was preferred and totally endoscopic concomitant mitral valve repair and aortic valve replacement were performed using a sutureless bioprosthetic valve (Perceval™ (Corcym, Group, Milan, Italy)). Polyurethane and silicon dressing foams were used to protect the skin at the site of contact with the bag valve mask, arterial pressure catheter, intravenous catheter, and the tracheal intubation tube. Vertical mattress sutures were used for the skin sutures. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged nine days after the operation. There was no indication for reoperation until three years follow-up period.ConclusionsThe totally endoscopic concomitant aortic and mitral valve surgery using Perceval™ prosthesis can be performed safely in patients with junctional epidermolysis bullosa by adequate protection of the skin and mucosa.

New approach to the mitral valve through the left anterior minithoracotomy for combined valve and coronary surgical procedures

ObjectiveWe have developed a new technique for accessing the mitral valve through the left anterior minithoracotomy. This approach has been used in patients requiring both mitral valve surgery and coronary artery bypass grafting. MethodsFrom October 2020 to September 2022, we performed 24 concomitant mitral valve procedures and coronary artery bypass grafting through the left anterior minithoracotomy. The average age of the patients was 65.5 years, and the mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 44.5%. Computed tomography angiography was routinely performed preoperatively. The surgical technique included a left anterior minithoracotomy in the fourth intercostal space, peripheral cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic crossclamping using a transthoracic clamp through the additional port in the left second intercostal space, the administration of cold blood cardioplegia, a right atrial transseptal approach to the mitral valve, and special surgical exposure maneuvers. These maneuvers were designed to displace the heart into the left pleural space by pulling the inferior vena cava tape and the ascending aorta tape to the left. Conventional mitral valve surgical techniques were used. The mitral valve repair or replacement was performed after the distal anastomoses to the right and circumflex coronary system were completed. Subsequently, after the mitral valve procedure, coronary anastomosis to the left anterior descending artery was performed. ResultsThe mitral valve was effectively visualized, and a planned procedure was successfully completed in all patients. There was no need for conversion to a sternotomy. mitral valve repair was performed in 22 patients (91.7%), and mitral valve replacement was performed in 2 patients (8.3%). Conventional surgical instruments were used in 10 cases (41%), and long-shafted instruments were used in 14 cases (59%). A knot-pusher was required in 9 cases (37.5%). A computed tomography distance from the skin level to the mitral valve posterior annulus of more than 14 cm was identified as a technical difficulty marker, necessitating the use of long-shafted instruments. Concomitant complete revascularization was achieved in all cases. The mean number of distal anastomoses was 2.54 ± 0.7 (1; 4). Total operation time was 341 ± 41 (285; 420) minutes, cardiopulmonary bypass time was 231 ± 38 (172; 316) minutes, and the crossclamp time was 127 ± 23 (80; 169) minutes. Patients had a mean intensive care unit stay of 1.87 ± 0.69 (1; 4) days, and their total hospital stay averaged 6.54 ± 1.86 (4; 10) days. There were no reoperations due to bleeding, no occurrences of strokes, and no other major complications. There were no instances of hospital mortality or mortality within 30 days after the procedures. ConclusionsMitral valve repair or replacement through the left anterior thoracotomy and transseptal approach is a valuable and effective technique that can be used for concomitant procedures performed through a single minithoracotomy incision in selected patients.

Pre-operative Imaging of Critical Coarctation of the Aorta: Impact on Surgical Approach and Outcomes.

Computed tomographic angiography (CTA) has been increasingly used for the evaluation of infants with aortic arch hypoplasia and coarctation of the aorta. The goals of this study were to compare echocardiographic and CTA findings in critical coarctation of the aorta, to evaluate each modality's influence on surgical approach for repair and determine if pre-operative measurements or surgical approach are associated with residual lesions/re-interventions. This was a single-center retrospective cohort study that included 85 neonates and infants who underwent repair of coarctation/arch hypoplasia by three months of age. Two groups were compared: patients with pre-operative echocardiograms only and patients with both echocardiogram and CTA evaluations. 44 (52%) patients received an echocardiogram and CTA, and 41 (48%) patients received an echocardiogram only. Patients in the CTA + echo group had smaller mitral valve and ascending aorta measurements (p = 0.01). When comparing CTA to echocardiogram measurements, the aortic valve annulus, ascending aorta, proximal and distal transverse arch, and isthmus were smaller on echo (p < 0.01). A smaller aortic valve annulus and aortic root as well as thoracotomy approach were associated with residual gradients/re-intervention (p < 0.01). Our study found that patients who underwent CTA preoperatively had smaller left-sided structures. Aortic measurements were smaller on echocardiogram when compared to CTA. Smaller left-sided structures proximal to the aortic arch and thoracotomy predicted the development of residual lesions/re-intervention. CTA is useful in the surgical planning for neonates with arch hypoplasia/coarctation and may help risk stratify for residual lesions/re-intervention.

Radicality and safety of mediastinal lymphadenectomy in lung resection: a comparative analysis of uniportal thoracoscopic, multiportal thoracoscopic, and thoracotomy approaches.

Lung cancer poses a significant challenge with high mortality rates. Minimally invasive surgical approaches, including the uniportal thoracoscopic technique, offer potential benefits in terms of recovery and patient compliance. This study focuses on evaluating the radicality of mediastinal lymphadenectomy during uniportal thoracoscopic lung resection, specifically assessing the reachability of established lymphatic stations. A comparative study was conducted at the University Hospital Ostrava from January 2015 to July 2022, focusing on the evaluation of radicality in mediastinal lymphadenectomy across three patient subgroups: uniportal thoracoscopic approach, multiportal thoracoscopic approach, and thoracotomy approach. The study implemented the routine identification and excision of 8 lymph node stations from the respective hemithorax to assess the radicality of lymph node harvesting. A total of 428 patients were enrolled and evaluated. No significant differences were observed in the number of lymph nodes removed between the subgroups. The mean number of lymph nodes removed was 6.50 in the left hemithorax and 6.49 in the right hemithorax. The 30-day postoperative morbidity rate for the entire patient population was 27.3%, with 17.5% experiencing minor complications and 6.5% experiencing major complications. Statistically significant differences were observed in major complications between the uniportal approach and the thoracotomy approach (3.5% vs 12.0%, p = 0.002). The overall mortality rate in the study population was 3%, with a statistically significant difference in mortality between the uniportal and multiportal approaches (1.0% vs 6.4%, p = 0.020). The uniportal approach demonstrated comparable accessibility and lymph node yield to multiportal and thoracotomy techniques. It is equivalent to established methods in terms of postoperative complications, with fewer major complications compared to thoracotomy. While our study indicates a potential for lower mortality following uniportal lung resection in comparison to multiportal lung resection, and demonstrates comparable outcomes to thoracotomy, it is important to approach these findings cautiously and refrain from drawing definitive conclusions.

Milestones in the History of Esophagectomy: From Torek to Minimally Invasive Approaches.

The history of esophagectomy reflects a journey of dedication, collaboration, and technical innovation, with ongoing endeavors aimed at optimizing outcomes and reducing complications. From its early attempts to modern minimally invasive approaches, the journey has been marked by perseverance and innovation. Franz J. A. Torek's 1913 successful esophageal resection marked a milestone, demonstrating the feasibility of transthoracic esophagectomy and the potential for esophageal cancer cure. However, its high mortality rate posed challenges, and it took almost two decades for similar successes to emerge. Surgical techniques evolved with the left thoracotomy, right thoracotomy, and transhiatal approaches, expanding the indications for resection. Mechanical staplers introduced in the early 20th century transformed anastomosis, reducing complications. The advent of minimally invasive techniques in the 1990s aimed to minimize complications while maintaining oncological efficacy. Robot-assisted esophagectomy further pushed the boundaries of minimally invasive surgery. Collaborative efforts, particularly from the Worldwide Esophageal Cancer Collaboration and the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group, standardized reporting and advanced the understanding of outcomes. The introduction of risk prediction models aids in making informed decisions. Despite significant improvements in survival rates and postoperative mortality, anastomotic leaks remain a concern, with recent rates showing an increase. Prevention strategies include microvascular anastomosis and ischemic preconditioning, yet challenges persist.

Does lateral approach preserve the right ventricular function after HeartMate 3 insertion?

Lateral thoracotomy (LT) approach may preserve the right ventricular (RV) function after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. This study evaluated the short- and long-term RV function using echocardiography after LVAD implantation via LT or median sternotomy (sternotomy). The patients who underwent HeartMate 3 implantation were retrospectively reviewed. The RV function was assessed before and 1 month and 1 year after LVAD implantation. The primary and secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality and a composite of death or readmission due to RV failure, respectively. Of the 195 patients, 55 (28%) underwent LT and 140 (72%) underwent sternotomy. There were no significant differences in the preoperative RV geometry or function. One month after the LVAD implantation, the LT group had a smaller RV end-diastolic dimension [42 (29-48) vs 47 (42-52) mm; P = 0.003] and RV end-diastolic area [25 (21-28) vs 29 (24-36) cm2; P < 0.001] and a greater RV fractional area change [30 (25-34)% vs 28 (23-31)%; P = 0.04] and peak systolic tissue velocity [8 (7-9) vs 7 (6-8) cm/s; P = 0.01]. Twenty-four patients died and 46 met the composite end point. Kaplan-Meier curve analysis did not reveal significant differences between LT and sternotomy in the 2-year survival (93% vs 83%; log-rank test, P = 0.28) and adverse event rate (76% vs 71%; log-rank test, P = 0.65). LT approach yielded a better-preserved RV function at 1 month; however, there were no significant differences in the 2-year survival and adverse event rates.

Postoperative atrial fibrillation after thoracic surgery (PoAF): risk factors and outcome

BackgroundPostoperative AF (PoAF) is a common complication of the early postoperative period of noncardiac, thoracic surgery and is associated with prolonged hospital stay. In order to investigate the predictors of PoAF in the specific setting of lung surgery of oncologic patients, we retrospectively analyzed 338 consecutive patients admitted to our department to be operated for lung cancer with a thoracotomy approach (i.e., open surgery). We determined this population’s prevalence, risk factors, and consequences of PoAF.ResultsPoAF occurred in 35/338 (10.4%) patients and was significantly more frequent in older patients, with a best predictive value of 71 years at ROC curve analysis (AUC 0.70, p < 0.001) and in those with chronic renal failure (p = 0.01). The left atrial area was also significantly associated with the risk of PoAF (AUC 0.78, p = 0.000). PoAF was more frequent in patients with small cell and squamous cell carcinoma (p = 0.03). The occurrence of PoAF was associated with a longer hospital stay (p = 0.001) but not with higher long-term mortality (follow-up mean length: 3.3 ± 0.3 years). At multivariable analysis, the only independent predictors of PoAF were age (OR for 1-year increase 1.089, 95% CI 1.039–1.141, p 0.001) and open surgery (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.0–4.29, p 0.047). At the 3-year follow-up, all patients were in sinus rhythm.ConclusionsThe present study shows the association between age and open surgery with PoAF, furtherly highlighting that the incidence of arrhythmia leads to a longer hospital stay. Left atrium dilatation could identify at-risk patients. Those results suggest that older patients — especially those with larger left atrium areas — might benefit most from a VATS approach to further reduce the arrhythmia incidence. Such a finding supports the indication of a systematic echocardiographic evaluation before elective lung surgery, especially in patients with known clinical risk factors.

Cryothermal energy demonstrates shorter ablation time and lower complication rates compared with radiofrequency in surgical hybrid ablation for recurrent ventricular tachycardia

Recurrent ventricular tachycardia (VT) after prior endocardial catheter ablation(s) presents challenges in the setting of prior cardiac surgery where percutaneous epicardial access may not be feasible. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of cryothermal vs radiofrequency ablation in direct surgical epicardial access procedures. We performed a retrospective study of consecutive surgical epicardial VT ablation cases. Surgical cases using cryothermal vs radiofrequency ablation were analyzed and outcomes were compared. Between 2009 and 2022, 43 patients underwent either a cryothermal (n = 17) or a radiofrequency (n = 26) hybrid epicardial ablation procedure with direct surgical access. Both groups were similarly matched for age, sex, etiology of VT, and comorbidities with a high burden of refractory VT despite previous endocardial and/or percutaneous epicardial ablation procedures. The surgical access site was lateral thoracotomy (76.5%) in the cryothermal ablation group compared with lateral thoracotomy (42.3%) and subxiphoid approach (38.5%) in the radiofrequency group, with the remainder in both groups performed via median sternotomy. The ablation time was significantly shorter in those undergoing cryothermal ablation vs radiofrequency ablation (11.54 ± 15.5 minutes vs 48.48 ± 23.6 minutes; P < .001). There were no complications in the cryothermal ablation group compared with 6 patients with complications in the radiofrequency group. Recurrent VT episodes and all-cause mortality were similar in both groups. Hybrid surgical VT ablation with cryothermal or radiofrequency energy demonstrated similar efficacy outcomes. Cryothermal ablation was more efficient and safer than radiofrequency in a surgical setting and should be considered when surgical access is required.

Robotic Mitral Valve Repair for Degenerative Mitral Regurgitation

BackgroundContemporary national utilization and comparative safety data of robotic mitral valve repair for degenerative mitral regurgitation compared with nonrobotic approaches are lacking. The study aimed to characterize national trends of utilization and outcomes of robotic mitral repair of degenerative mitral regurgitation compared with sternotomy and thoracotomy approaches. MethodsPatients undergoing intended mitral repair of degenerative mitral regurgitation in The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database between 2015 and 2021 were examined. Mitral repair was performed in 61,322 patients. Descriptive analyses characterized center-level volumes and outcomes. Propensity score matching separately identified 5540 pairs of robotic vs thoracotomy approaches and 6962 pairs of robotic vs sternotomy approaches. Outcomes were operative mortality, composite mortality and major morbidity, postoperative length of stay, and conversion to mitral replacement. ResultsThrough the 7-year study period, 116 surgeons across 103 hospitals performed mitral repair robotically. The proportion of robotic cases increased from 10.9% (949 of 8712) in 2015 to 14.6% (1274 of 8730) in 2021. In both robotic-thoracotomy and robotic-sternotomy matched pairs, mortality and morbidity were not significantly different, whereas the robotic approach had lower conversion (1.2% vs 3.1% for robotic-thoracotomy and 1.0% vs 3.7% for robotic-sternotomy), shorter length of stay, and fewer 30-day readmissions. Mortality and morbidity were lower at higher-volume centers, crossing the national mean mortality and morbidity at a cumulative robotic mitral repair case of 40. ConclusionsRobotic mitral repair is a safe and effective approach and is associated with comparable mortality and morbidity, a lower conversion rate, a shorter length of stay, and fewer 30-day readmissions than thoracotomy or sternotomy approaches.

Nationwide Outcomes After Thoracoscopic Versus Open Resection of Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformations in Newborns.

Purpose: Elective resection of congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAM) has been debated for decades and varies significantly between individual surgeons. However, few studies have compared outcomes and costs associated with thoracoscopic and open thoracotomy approaches on a national level. This study sought to compare nationwide outcomes and resource utilization in infants undergoing elective lung resection for CPAM. Materials and Methods: The Nationwide Readmission Database was queried from 2010 to 2014 for newborns who underwent elective surgical resection of CPAM. Patients were stratified by operative approach (thoracoscopic versus open). Demographics, hospital characteristics, and outcomes were analyzed using standard statistical tests. Results: A total of 1716 newborns with CPAM were identified. Elective readmission for pulmonary resection was performed in 12% (n = 198), with 63% of resections completed at a different hospital than the newborn stay. Most resections were thoracoscopic (75%), compared to only 25% via thoracotomy. Infants treated with thoracoscopic resection were more often male (78% versus 62% open, P = .040) and were older at the time of resection. Patients who had an open thoracotomy experienced a higher rate of serious complications (40% versus 10% thoracoscopic, P < .001), including postoperative hemorrhage, tension pneumothorax, and pulmonary collapse. Readmission costs were higher for infants treated via thoracotomy (P < .001). Conclusion: Thoracoscopic lung resection for CPAM is associated with lower cost and fewer postoperative complications than thoracotomy. Most resections are performed at different hospitals than the place of birth, which may affect long-term outcomes from single institutional studies. These findings may be used to address costs and improve future evaluations of elective CPAM resections.

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery in low-resource settings: right vertical infra-axillary mini-thoracotomy without peripheral cannulation - the first 100 cases.

Literature is scarce on minimally invasive cardiac surgery in adults with a right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy approach without using peripheral cannulation. This study aimed to analyze the perioperative, early outcomes of minimally invasive cardiac surgery with direct vision using central aortic-venous cannulation through a right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy, vs. standard cardiac surgery with median sternotomy. This retrospective study included the first 100 adult patients who were operated on via right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy and central aortic and venous cannulation. The control group comprised 100 adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery through a median sternotomy and central aortic and venous cannulation. The thoracotomy group was associated with prolonged aortic cross-clamp time, cardiopulmonary bypass time, and operation time. The amount of postoperative chest tube drainage and blood transfusion was higher in the sternotomy group. No difference was found between the groups in terms of postoperative morbidity and mortality rates. Despite a higher level of pain in the thoracotomy group on the first 3 postoperative days, patient satisfaction was higher in this group. In a resource-limited setting, minimally invasive cardiac surgery with direct vision using central aortic-venous cannulation through a right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy may help to establish minimally invasive cardiac surgery with better cosmetic results, and higher patient satisfaction compared to the median sternotomy approach. Outcomes during the learning curve were similar.

One-step thoracotomy approach for atrial-esophageal fistula repair without cardiopulmonary bypass.

Atrial-esophageal fistula is an extremely rare disease and a life-threatening complication after catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. There is no consensus on the management or repair for atrial-esophageal fistula which has a high mortality rate. Here, we describe a lateral thoracotomy approach focused on simplifying the repair procedure for atrial-esophageal fistula in two patients.

P121 MITRAL VALVE STENOSIS ASSOCIATED WITH LEFT VENTRICULAR OUTFLOW TRACT OBSTRUCTION: A TERRIBLE COMBINATION WITH A DIFFICULT TREATMENT

Abstract Case n. 1 A 77 year–old woman with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who had undergone alcohol septal ablation with a reduction in dynamic left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient from 95 to 65 mmHg was hospitalized for pulmonary oedema. Echocardiography and cardiac catheterization confirmed the presence of obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with a dynamic gradient of 65 mmHg, and identified a severe calcific mitral stenosis (3D planimetric area= 0,9 cm2). There was severe postcapillary pulmonary hypertension (pulmonary artery mean pressure of 60 mmHg and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure of 26 mmHg). The patient underwent a combined surgical intervention of mitral valve replacement (Epic 27 mm bioprosthesis) and surgical septal myectomy via a mini–thoracotomic approach. After the intervention there were dehiscence and infection of the thoracotomy and right inguinal surgical wounds, septic shock, hyporexia (with marked cachexia), emotional instability and delirium. After 21 days of hospitalization in the ICU, the patient was transferred to a medical department and died seven days later. Case n. 2 A 82 year–old woman with severe mitral stenosis associated with marked left ventricular hypertrophy and LVOT obstruction was admitted for heart failure and worsening renal function. Her comorbidities included diabetic neuropathy and stage 4 chronic kidney disease. Cardiac catheterization excluded significant coronary artery disease; mitral valve area was 1 cm2, and LVOT gradient was 75 mmHg. Pulmonary artery mean pressure was 32 mmHg, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was 25 mmHg, and right atrial mean pressure was 8 mmHg. She was deemed a high–risk surgical candidate. The patient therefore was treated initially with peritoneal dialysis. However she demonstrated persisting pulmonary congestion. An atrial septostomy inserting a 8–mm Atrial Flow Regulator was subsequently performed, with an immediate reduction of capillary wedge pressure to 18 mmHg. In the following 18 months the patient had no more hospitalizations for heart failure. Conclusion The association between mitral stenosis and LVOT obstruction is associated with elevated capillary wedge pressure and frequent episodes of heart failure. Surgical intervention remains the first therapeutical option. Nevertheless, in older patients, the association between atrial septostomy and peritoneal dialysis may represent a valuable solution, with a lower operative risk.

P47 MITRAL VALVE RE–REPAIR THROUGH A RIGHT MINITHORACOTOMY

Abstract Objective Recurrent mitral valve regurgitation after prior repair is usually treated with re–repair or replacement through a median sternotomy. We report our small initial experience with mitral valve re–repair through a repeated minimally invasive approach. Methods From July 2018 to November 2021, 10 patients (median age 52 years IQR 49–68; male 90%) underwent isolated mitral valve re–repair with a right mini–thoracotomy approach with peripheral arterial and venous cannulation. Median Euroscore II was 2.05 (IQR 2.03–2.54). Results The median time from the original operation to redo surgery was 4.7 (3.5–8.1) years. Median cardiopulmonary bypass and cross–clamp times were 128 (IQR 109–134) and 99.5 (IQR 81–112) minutes, respectively. Failure of previous mitral valve repair was mainly due to Gore–Tex chordal rupture (3 patients), annular detachment (3 patients), native chordal rupture (2 patients), and posterior leaflet prolapse (2 patients). Concerning the surgical terchnique, a complete mitral valve ring Corcym Memo 3D or 4D was used in 8 patients while additional repair techniques were needed 5 patients (PTFE neochords implantation, cleft or commissure closure). No conversion to full sternotomy and no reoperation for bleeding was necessary. Median ICU and hospital stay were 2.0 (IQR 2.0–2.0) and 7.5 (7.0–9.0) days respectively. Median follow up time was 3.5 (2.8–3.9) years. Neither deaths nor major postoperative complications occurred in the follow–up period. Conclusions In our experience, mitral valve re–repair can be an attractive option for patients with failure of previous mitral valve surgery and can be safely performed through a minimally invasive approach with good outcomes. Main advantages seem to be the avoidance of extensive surgical dissection, optimal valve exposure, and low risk of surgical complications.

Minimal-Access Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Closure

Progress towards the development and adoption of minimally invasive techniques in cardiac surgery has been slower than that seen in other surgical specialties. Congenital heart disease (CHD) patients represent an important population within cardiac disease, of which atrial septal defect (ASD) is one of the most common diagnoses. Management of ASD encompasses a range of minimal-access and minimally invasive approaches, including transcatheter device closure, mini-sternotomy, thoracotomy, video-assisted, endoscopic, and robotic approaches. In this article, we will discuss the pathophysiology of ASD, along with diagnosis, management, and indications for intervention. We will review the current evidence supporting minimally invasive and minimal-access surgical ASD closure in the adult and paediatric patient, highlighting peri-operative considerations and areas for further research.

Preoperative Diagnostic Dilemma of Diaphragmatic Eventration

Background: Diaphragmatic eventration is an abnormal elevation of the dome of the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity. Neonatal respiratory distress is the most common clinical presentation of diaphragmatic eventration. Direct abdominal organ compression on the lung or lung hypoplasia is the cause of this symptom. Preoperative radiological imaging is important to diagnose diaphragmatic eventration. Chest radiographs, ultrasound, CT scans and MRI can be used to evaluate the anatomy of the diaphragm. In complicated condition, video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) play a role as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool to diagnose and manage diaphragmatic eventration. Case presentation: We presented a case of a full-term unfortunate baby delivered via emergency lower segment caesarean section due to bleeding of the placenta previa type III. Immediately post-delivery, the patient had respiratory distress with an episode of desaturation. CT scan showed a focal right hemi-diaphragmatic bulge with liver tissue within. Video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) was performed and the diagnosis of right diaphragmatic eventration had been established. Diaphragmatic plication was done via a VATS-assisted thoracotomy approach. Conclusion: Video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) plays a role as a diagnostic tool and even as a therapeutic tool to diagnose and manage diaphragmatic eventration. The capability of VATS to provide direct visualization intrathoracically has a great advantage in managing a such case.

Evaluation of an enhanced recovery after lung surgery (ERALS) program in lung cancer lobectomy: An eight-year experience

IntroductionEnhanced recovery after lung surgery (ERALS) protocols have proven useful in reducing postoperative stay (POS) and postoperative complications (POC). We studied the performance of an ERALS program for lung cancer lobectomy in our institution, aiming to identify which factors are associated with a reduction of POC and POS. MethodsAnalytic retrospective observational study conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital involving patients submitted to lobectomy for lung cancer and included in an ERALS program. Univariable and multivariable analysis were employed to identify factors associated with increased risk of POC and prolonged POS. ResultsA total 624 patients were enrolled in the ERALS program. The median POS was 4 days (range 1–63), with 2.9% of ICU postoperative admission. A videothoracoscopic approach was used in 66.6% of cases, and 174 patients (27.9%) experienced at least one POC. Perioperative mortality rate was 0.8% (5 cases). Mobilization to chair in the first 24h after surgery was achieved in 82.5% of cases, with 46.5% of patients achieving ambulation in the first 24h. Absence of mobilization to chair and preoperative FEV1% less than 60% predicted, were identified as independent risk factors for POC, while thoracotomy approach and the presence of POC predicted prolonged POS. ConclusionsWe observed a reduction in ICU admissions and POS contemporaneous with the use of an ERALS program in our institution. We demonstrated that early mobilization and videothoracoscopic approach are modifiable independent predictors of reduced POC and POS, respectively.