MINIMALLY Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) is changing the way heart surgery is being perceived and performed.
It's a technique that allows heart surgeons to perform complex procedures with significantly less invasiveness compared to traditional open-heart surgery.
By utilising specialised equipment, advanced imaging technology, and robotic assistance, surgeons can now minimise trauma to the patient's body.
The biggest difference between MICS and conventional cardiac surgery is the need to cut the sternum, which is the chest bone, explains Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 consultant cardiothoracic surgeon Professor Dr Shahrul Amry.
Under a minimally-invasive approach, the access to the heart is done via a small incision (within 3 - 7cm) through intercostal space using an endoscopy technique to aid the surgeon in viewing the heart structure.
"Such advances ensure that patients have the best treatment options, which pave the way to a better surgical experience in the future," adds Dr Shahrul.
MICS, aptly called "zip-less cardiac surgery", reduces significant scarring, lowers medical complications and assists in faster recovery too.
Since it involves much smaller incisions, often less than five centimetres, this sets it apart from conventional open-heart surgery that requires a sternotomy - a large incision through the chest bone that fractures the bone and leaves a "zip-like" scar.
"By avoiding the need to cut the sternum, patients' recovery process and quality of life are drastically improved."
Patients can also engage in more frequent and aggressive rehabilitation programmes that stimulate recovery post-surgery.
Dr Shahrul says MICS is gaining popularity in Malaysia as more and more patients and healthcare providers recognise its numerous benefits. With advancements in technology and increasing expertise among surgeons, MICS is becoming a more accessible and preferred option for cardiac procedures.
"While not every heart patient is a candidate for MICS, a significant majority, over 90 per cent, are suitable for this less invasive approach."
The suitability of a patient is determined by factors such as their specific heart condition, overall health, and the surgeon's assessment.
MICS - changing the landscape of heart surgery
Reduced Trauma
Smaller incisions result in less tissue damage, leading to faster recovery times and reduced pain.
Less Blood Loss
MICS typically involves less blood loss, reducing the need for blood transfusions.
Quicker Recovery
Patients who undergo MICS often experience shorter hospital stays and a faster return to normal activities. Patients can be rehabilitated as early as 1-2 weeks after surgery compared with four weeks in open surgery as limiting factors like pain and wound infections are less likely with MICS.
Less Scarring
Smaller incisions leave less visible scars, providing a more favourable cosmetic outcome.