A 35-year-old member asked:
where do they cut when replacing a bicuspid aortic valve?
2 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in

Dr. Sergio Cossuanswered
Cardiology 33 years experience
Several: The standard surgical approach is via a mi sternotomy approach. Currently there are centers performing the surgery via a minimal thoracotomy incision as well. The latest approach is a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (tavr). Which is done withou an incision and performed though a catheter via the groin. Check with your surgeon as to which approach is best for you.
5.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Roberto Rodriguezanswered
Thoracic Surgery 22 years experience
Many: The standard approach is a full sternotomy. There are 2 minimally invasive approaches; a mini upper sternotomy and a mini right anterior thoracotomy. If you are having an isolated aortic valve procedure, you should find a surgeon with minimally invasive experience. The transcatheter approach is only used for high risk and inoperable patients and it is contraindicated for bicuspid valves.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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Last updated Jul 29, 2016
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