Right Thoracotomy Approach For Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery (Graphic)

Minimally invasive heart surgery is an option for some patients with mitral valve disease. Marc Gillinov, MD, Cleveland Clinic cardiothoracic surgeon, demonstrates a minimally invasive mitral valve surgery taking the right thoracotomy approach. This method leaves a small 6 cm. incision between the ribs on the right side of the chest. To learn more about minimally invasive heart surgery, please visit