Sternotomy-sparing Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement—more than Cosmetics if Liver Function is Affected?

The article explores the impact of minimally invasive aortic valve replacement on patients with impaired liver function and potential portal hypertension. By analyzing data from 1,840 patients who underwent aortic valve surgery, the study found that patients with signs of liver dysfunction and portal hypertension had significantly lower perioperative mortality when surgery was performed through a sternotomy-sparing mini-thoracotomy. The findings suggest that this approach may be beneficial for patients with liver issues undergoing aortic valve replacement surgery. [Extracted from the article]