Computed tomography in preoperative planning for minimally invasive cardiac surgery aids in assessing surgical feasibility, vascular access, and risk stratification across 17 reviewed studies.
Systematic Review (n=17)
Does preoperative computed tomography (CT) imaging improve surgical planning and patient outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive valvular heart surgery?
Preoperative CT imaging is a critical tool for optimizing surgical planning, assessing feasibility, and enhancing patient safety in minimally invasive valvular heart surgery.
Abstract OBJECTIVES Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) offers significant advantages over conventional sternotomy, including reduced trauma and faster recovery. Preoperative planning is crucial, with computed tomography (CT) emerging as an essential imaging tool. This systematic review aims to evaluate CT’s role in MICS planning, focusing on imaging protocols, surgical guidance, and patient outcomes. METHODS This study included studies published between January 2003 and January 2025 that examined the role of CT imaging in planning minimally invasive valvular heart surgery. A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE using predefined keywords and MeSH terms related to CT imaging, angiography, minimally invasive surgery, robotic surgery, aortic valve surgery, and mitral valve surgery. RESULTS Initial search found 378 studies, and 17 studies were included in the review. The studies highlight CT’s value in assessing surgical feasibility, vascular access, and risk stratification. CT aids in selecting arterial cannulation sites, guiding aortic occlusion strategies, and optimising port placement. It also identifies contraindications, such as extensive atherosclerosis and anatomical abnormalities that may necessitate sternotomy. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence underscores CT’s critical role in optimising MICS planning and enhancing patient safety.
Bejand et al. (Thu,) conducted a systematic review in Minimally invasive valvular heart surgery (n=17). Computed tomography (CT) was evaluated on CT's role in MICS planning, focusing on imaging protocols, surgical guidance, and patient outcomes. Computed tomography in preoperative planning for minimally invasive cardiac surgery aids in assessing surgical feasibility, vascular access, and risk stratification across 17 reviewed studies.