Early results of total arch replacement under partial sternotomy

Objective Partial sternotomy with limited skin incision has been utilized for cardiac surgery. We, therefore, started to apply the partial sternotomy for total arch replacement since 2013 in selected cases. The aim of this study reported the results of our early experiences. Methods Between July 2013 and December 2015, we retrospectively reviewed 15 cases (median age 72, range 67–84, 15 male) who underwent total arch replacement thorough partial sternotomy. All procedures were performed under hypothermic circulatory arrest with selective cerebral perfusion. Results Median skin incision was 9 cm (range 7–15 cm, 5.3% of height) and partial sternotomy consisted of 14 upper and 1 lower partial sternotomy (L shape 8 and T shape 7 cases). Median operation time, cardiopulmonary bypass time, ischemic heart time, selective cerebral perfusion time and hypothermic circulatory arrest time were 485 [360–770], 223 [1174–270], 146 [100–163], 154 [116–189], and 69 [45–90] minutes, respectively. Median duration of mechanical ventilator dependent time was 12 h [5–38]. Median length of ICU stay and hospital stay were 3 [1–7], and 18 [13–76] days, respectively. Thirty days and in-hospital mortality were 0% without any neurological complications. There are two aorta-related reoperation due to graft inducing hemolytic anemia and no aorta-related death during follow-up (median 954, range 702–1462 days). Conclusion The early results of total arch replacement through partial sternotomy were satisfactory. The partial sternotomy could be a good option for total arch replacement in selected patients.