Doctors are opting for minimally invasive cardiac surgeries whenever possible due to its advantages. In this method, there is less loss of blood, the patient’s stay at hospital is reduced, recovery time is less compared to the time taken after the traditional surgery, infection risk is less, the incision heals faster, and it is an advantage for patients who are considered to be on the high risk side to undergo the traditional method of surgery due to different factors.
A local hospital recently performed ‘thoracotomy’ (meaning an incision into the chest) on a 16-year-old student to bring relief to her from a complex cardiac ailment.
For the youngster, this kind of surgery ensures a healthy living and also leaves a little scar instead of a long one that cannot be hidden.
V. Pratyusha complained of recurrent fever, breathlessness, and loss of appetite. Tests revealed that metal valve in the left chamber of her heart was infected (infective endocarditis).
Since surgery alone an cure the problem, doctors at Manipal Hospitals brought her fever under control and went for mitral valve replacement with a tissue valve since she was young.
This valve would ensure that Pratyusha need not be on anticoagulant medication.
The surgery was done via Right Antero-lateral thoracotomy by opening the heart, cutting through the sternum or the front chest bone.
The surgery lasted four hours and Pratyusha was in ICU for two days followed by another five days under medical observation.
Explaining the surgery, cardiothoracic surgeon K. Sagar Babu said, “A four-inch incision was made between the ribs instead of open heart surgery. This led to less hospital stay, minimal pain post-surgery, and minimal scarring. Also, by using a tissue valve instead of mechanical valve, there are less chances of re-infection. This surgery also has another advantage.
“The patient can complete her family life and have children without any complications. She needs redo surgery after 15 years, since tissue valve was used, which can be done by sternotomy with minimal adhesions and risk.”
