Access to the Heart – Evolution of surgical techniques

Abstract

Access to the heart and closure of the resultant incisions and wounds have been considered major impediments to the growth of cardiac surgery. Nevertheless, during the 1980s and 1990s, the sternotomy was the most commonly performed surgical access procedure in the world. We discuss the evolution of various techniques to allow access to the heart and surrounding structures. Methods of closure of these incisions are also highlighted as these techniques evolve.