ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility, safety, and short-term effect of minimally invasive ascending aorta surgery through a right anterior thoracotomy via the second intercostal incision.MethodsThe clinical data of 13 patients who underwent minimally invasive ascending aorta surgery (including minimally invasive Bentall operation in 7 patients, minimally invasive Wheat operation in 2 patients, and minimally invasive ascending aorta replacement in 4 patients) through a right anterior thoracotomy via the second intercostal incision in our center from October, 2019 to September, 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 12 males and 1 female at age of 19-69 (52.4±13.7) years.ResultsThe aortic cross-clamping time was 84.3±18.3 min. Three patients received blood transfusion, with the rate of 23.1%. The drainage volume in the first 24 hours after operation was 214.5±146.3 mL, with no redo for bleeding. The duration of mechanical ventilation was 19.0±11.3 hours and the length of intensive care unit stay was 1.8±1.3 days. The drainage tube was removed 2.5±1.0 days after operation. All the 13 patients recovered and discharged 6.4±2.0 days after operation, with no dead patients found. All patients survived with New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classⅠandⅡduring a median follow-up of 8 months.ConclusionMinimally invasive ascending aorta surgery through a right anterior thoracotomy via the second intercostal incision may be a safe and effective method with less injury and quick recovery.
