1) Minimally invasive cardiac surgery techniques have advanced with smaller cannulas, improved visualization tools, and robotic assistance, allowing for reduced trauma through smaller incisions.
2) Three case studies presented patients undergoing minimally invasive aortic valve replacement, mitral valve repair, and atrial septal defect repair who had short, uncomplicated hospital stays.
3) The evidence shows minimally invasive mitral valve surgery has equal outcomes to sternotomy with less post-operative pain and faster recovery, though longer bypass times, with long-term results also equivalent. It is well-suited for high-risk and re-operative patients.