Minimal access compared to sternotomy for aortic root and arch surgery.

INTRODUCTION

Partial upper sternotomy is an established technique for aortic valve surgery in numerous centers. Based on the favorable results, this access can be extended for more complex procedures. We assessed the outcomes of aortic root and arch surgery through partial versus full sternotomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 2013 to December 2020, 100 patients underwent proximal aortic surgery. The minimal access approach was used in 73 patients. Operative variables and outcomes were retrospectively analyzed and compared between both groups.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in cross-clamping and extracorporeal circulation times, as well as no difference in postoperative acute renal failure, stroke, myocardial infarction, and re-exploration for bleeding. However, there was a significant difference in favor of partial upper sternotomy in red blood cell transfusion (0 vs. 234 mL;  = 0.01), postoperative drainage volume (300 vs. 750 mL;  < 0.001), ventilation time (median 3 vs. 24 h;  < 0.001), sepsis (1 [1.4%] vs. 4 [14.8%];  = 0.02), intensive care unit (median 2 vs. 4 days;  = 0.002) and hospital stay (median 7 vs. 10 days;  < 0.001). Only one patient required intraoperative conversion due to massive bleeding. There was no difference in 30-day mortality between both groups.

CONCLUSION

The partial upper sternotomy approach is safe and feasible for aortic root and arch surgery with morbidity and mortality rates similar to full sternotomy, with the advantages of less blood loss and transfusions need, faster extubation, and shorter length of hospital stay.