Diane's Posts

I had a mini-thoracotomy for my mitral valve repair. The primary incision was about 3 inches and there were two additional tiny incisions for instruments and maybe a camera. The position of the entry can vary. I believe full robotic involves five tiny incisions with the surgeon's view displayed only on a screen. I also agree with J Alexander about getting an experienced surgeon. Regardless of the entry, you have to remember you're under anesthesia and on bypass while surgery is being performed. You want to be sure that surgical time isn't unnecessarily extended just to get a better cosmetic result. Good luck with your decision.