Minimally Invasive Cardiovascular Surgery (MICS)

Before undergoing MICS, patients are carefully evaluated to determine their suitability for the procedure. Diagnostic tests such as echocardiography, ECG, CT scans, and blood investigations are performed to assess heart function and identify the exact condition. In some cases, coronary angiography may also be required for detailed assessment. Doctors review the patient's overall health, including conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or lung disease, to minimize surgical risks. Patients are advised to follow preoperative instructions, including fasting for several hours before surgery and adjusting medications under medical supervision. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and maintaining a balanced diet are recommended to improve surgical outcomes.

On the day of surgery, the patient is taken to the operating room where general anaesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free experience. A breathing tube is inserted, and the patient is connected to a ventilator. The surgeon makes small incisions, usually on the side of the chest, to access the heart without cutting through the breastbone. Specialized instruments and cameras are used to perform the procedure with precision. Depending on the condition being treated, the surgeon may repair or replace heart valves, perform bypass grafting, or correct structural defects. In some cases, a heart-lung machine may still be used, but the overall surgical trauma is significantly reduced compared to traditional open-heart surgery. Once the procedure is completed, the incisions are closed, and the patient is transferred to the intensive care unit for monitoring.

After MICS, patients are monitored in the ICU for the first 24 hours to ensure stability. Compared to traditional surgery, patients typically experience less pain and faster recovery. Most patients can begin sitting and walking within a day or two after the procedure. Pain management, wound care, and infection prevention are essential aspects of post-operative care. Breathing exercises are encouraged to improve lung function and prevent complications. The hospital stay is usually shorter, ranging from 3 to 5 days, depending on the patient's recovery progress. Doctors provide detailed instructions regarding medications, physical activity, and follow-up visits.