
Survival Analysis of Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery Versus Conventional Median Sternotomy in the United States
This retrospective cohort study compares survival outcomes and surgical efficiency between minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MiMVS) via mini-thoracotomy and conventional sternotomy. Among 422 elective cases, MiMVS was associated with shorter hospital stays, less postoperative bleeding, and shorter operative times. Although no significant survival difference was found, mitral valve replacement showed higher mortality risk than repair.