Conventional Sternotomy
Median sternotomy has been the preferred approach in mitral valve
surgery for many years. It involves an incision due to complications
such as inevitable blood loss, transfusion, and a higher risk of
surgical site infections, MIMVS has gained ground as a first choice
instead.65,66 Sundermann et al. meta-analysis reports
similar rates of mortality, but a clear advantage of MIMVS over
conventional sternotomy when it comes to postoperative care and hospital
stay.66 Nonetheless, some surgeons argue that median
sternotomy allows for better exposure and possibly even fewer
complications.67
All in all, the efficacy of conventional sternotomy is comparable to
that of MIMVS and ongoing clinical trials are still trying to provide
the medical community with a definite answer.68