Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery

Specialists in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

The Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital, led by Dr Javier Gallego, specialises in cardiac surgery using reduced thoracic incisions and robot-assisted techniques.

These techniques enable certain cardiac procedures to be performed via smaller incisions than those used in conventional surgery, utilising high-precision robotic platforms where clinical and anatomical conditions permit.

State-of-the-art minimally invasive technology applied to the heart

The Unit utilises state-of-the-art robotic technology, such as the Da Vinci 5 surgical robot, which enables cardiac surgery to be performed with a high degree of precision via small incisions.

This type of surgery provides the surgeon with a magnified view and highly precise control, which is particularly important during procedures on delicate cardiac structures.

These capabilities enable procedures to be carried out with great accuracy, promoting a more favourable post-operative outcome and a gradual recovery.

Cardiac procedures using minimally invasive techniques

The Unit uses robotic cardiac surgery techniques for certain procedures.

Instead of completely opening the sternum, as is the case in traditional cardiac surgery, some procedures can be carried out using state-of-the-art robotic platforms, which allow the surgeon to work with great precision inside the chest via mini-thoracotomies (small incisions between the ribs) or mini-sternotomies (partial and more limited openings of the sternum).

Procedures that may be considered using this type of approach include:

• Robot-assisted mitral valve repair

• Aortic valve surgery

• Coronary revascularisation

• Resection of cardiac tumours

Each procedure is recommended following an individualised assessment, which determines whether the minimally invasive surgical approach is suitable for the patient and for the type of operation required.

Advantages of the robotic and minimally invasive approach

The use of robotic techniques makes it possible, in cases where it is indicated, to avoid fully opening the sternum and to perform the procedure via small incisions.

This approach offers significant benefits during the recovery process:

• Less pain after surgery•
Smaller incisions and better
tissue healing• Less impact on the body•

Faster functional recovery• Gradual return to everyday activities

The technical precision and the type of approach facilitate a more comfortable recovery and a swifter return to normal activity.

Diagnostic assessment and surgical planning

The decision to proceed with minimally invasive cardiac surgery requires a detailed assessment process to analyse the cardiac anatomy, the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s clinical condition.

Surgical planning is based on a review of cardiac imaging studies, functional tests and supplementary investigations, which enable the surgical strategy to be defined with precision.

This analysis enables the selection of the type of surgical approach, the most appropriate technique and the technology required to perform the procedure with the utmost control and safety.

The final decision is always based on clinical criteria and on ensuring that the surgical approach is tailored to each patient’s individual characteristics.

Specialist team and clinical support

The Unit operates within a coordinated care model.

From the very first consultation, sufficient time is set aside to explain to the patient the diagnosis, the available treatment options and the details of the proposed surgical procedure. This information enables the patient to understand the surgical process, the stages of the operation and the expected recovery period.

The care model at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital prioritises a clear explanation of the diagnosis, personalised treatment planning and support for the patient throughout all stages of the surgical process.

Following the operation, the patient undergoes a structured follow-up programme designed to assess their clinical progress and monitor their recovery, ensuring coordinated care before, during and after surgery.