The Annals of thoracic surgery
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Right thoracotomy is a well known alternative to median sternotomy to gain access to the left atrium. To avoid the potential drawbacks associated with sternotomy coupled to the desire for a smaller scar and a more rapid rehabilitation in young and active patients, we investigated the purported advantages in patients undergoing video-assisted Port-Access mitral valve surgery. ⋯ The video-assisted Port-Access mitral valve approach is a valid alternative to sternotomy, with the same standards of results and quality.
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The aim of this study was to evaluate the midterm results of a modified button-Bentall operation (modified-bB) specifically designed to incorporate any type of prosthetic valve in composite conduit aortic root replacement. ⋯ Modified-bB was associated with low mortality, excellent midterm survival, and freedom from reoperation. Absence of valve-to-graft tapering, reduced coronary button anastomosis tension, and prosthesis selection according to patient profile, are apparent advantages of modified-bB.