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Home Expertise Minimally invasive
The procedure

Surgery
Minimally invasive

Minimally invasive heart surgery in Tangier: operating on the heart through a small incision between the ribs (mini-thoracotomy), without sternotomy, for less pain, faster recovery and, in appropriate cases, results comparable to conventional surgery.

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SternumIntact
Route firstIntercostal
Duration2 – 3 h
Hospitalization2 – 4 days
AnaesthesiaGeneral

Minimally invasive surgery
in Tangier

What if you could operate the heart without opening the sternum? It's the whole point of minimally invasive surgery: you get to the heart by a small incision between the ribs, most often on the right side (mini-thoracotomy), leaving the sternum intact. Result: less pain, less bleeding, shorter hospitalization, a discreet scar and, in cases that are suitable, results comparable to classical surgery. This path is particularly suitable for surgery of the mitral valve, as well as for certain other selected situations. Not everyone is a candidate, it depends on your anatomy, your vessels and your breath: That's exactly what Dr. Tber is checking during the pre-operative check, to direct you to the most safe technique for you.

Main indications

Mitral valve disease (right mini-throacotomy repair) Selected aortic valve disease Coronary bypass (selected cases) Inter-ear communication Cardiac mass removal (myxoma of left earlet)

Benefits for the patient

Small incision between the ribs, without sternotomy Less post-operative pain Discreet scar Faster recovery Reduced hospitalization Less bleeding and transfusions

Your journey

Step by step

Consultation & review

Assessment of your eligibility for the minimally invasive route according to your pathology and anatomy.

Preparation

Intervention planning and full patient information.

Intervention

The operation carried out through a small incision between the ribs (mini-thoracotomy).

Recovery & Tracking

Usually a quicker return to everyday activities, with close follow-up.

Questions common

You're wondering...
Am I eligible for minimally invasive surgery?
Whether you are a candidate depends on your condition, your anatomy, the state of your vessels and your lung function. Not every patient is suitable: in some situations the conventional route through the breastbone remains the safest option. A full pre-operative work-up at Dr Tber's practice in Tangier is what settles which technique fits your case best.
Is the heart stopped during the procedure?
As with conventional surgery, the operation usually requires a circulation support (cardiopulmonary bypass), which temporarily takes over from the heart and lungs. This device is installed by small cannulas, often at the groin level. You are asleep by a general anaesthesia and closely monitored from beginning to end.
How long does the hospital last?
Two to four days on average, against a week or more for conventional surgery. The exact length depends on the operation performed and on your recovery.
Is the procedure painful?
The small incision and leaving the breastbone intact cut post-operative pain markedly. Suitable pain relief is provided throughout your hospital stay.
What's the difference with classical sternotomy surgery?
Classic surgery opens the sternum (sternotomy), while the minimally invasive pathway passes through a small incision between the ribs (mini-thoracotomy), without opening the sternum. The scar is more discreet, the bleeding often less and the recovery faster, for a comparable surgical result in the appropriate cases.
When can I get back to work and driving?
Leaving the breastbone intact usually means getting back to things sooner than after conventional surgery. Dr Tber gives you the exact timing for your operation and your recovery at the follow-up consultations.

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All areas

A question on
This intervention?

For a consultation, second opinion or cardiovascular emergency, the Tangier clinic responds promptly.

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