Professor Theo Kofidis
With Over 32 Years Of Experience In Cardiac Surgery,
What Is Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS)?
Advances in minimally invasive techniques may allow certain heart conditions to be treated through smaller incisions. Treatment plans are tailored to individual patient needs, with a focus on precision and careful surgical planning. In selected cases, less invasive approaches may be considered where appropriate.
Heart valve conditions are evaluated individually to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. In selected cases, repair techniques may be considered as an alternative to replacement, with minimally invasive approaches available where appropriate as part of a tailored surgical plan.
Understanding
Your Options
Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) and Open Heart Surgery are two established approaches used in heart surgery. The main difference lies in how access to the heart is achieved during the procedure.
Both approaches are performed to treat heart conditions effectively. A consultation with (Adj) Professor Theo Kofidis will determine the most appropriate surgical approach for you.
MICS
Open Heart
Incision
Size
Small (5-6 cm)
Large (up to 25 cm, divides the chestbone)
Recovery
Time
Shorter
(2-4 weeks)
Longer
(6-12 weeks)
Pain Level
Typically Less
Typically More
Hospital
Stay
Shorter
(3-5 days)
Longer
(7-10 days)
Risk of
Infection
Reduced Risk
Increased Risk
Scarring
Minimal
Pronounced
Cosmetic Effect
Looks Subtle
Looks Noticeable
Blood Loss
Typically Less
Typically More
Mobility
Typically Faster
Typically Slower
Lung Function
Better Preserved
May Be More Affected
Meet Your Surgeon
PROFESSOR THEO KOFIDIS
PROFESSOR THEO KOFIDIS
(Adj) Professor Theo Kofidis is a cardiac surgeon with more than 32 years of experience in the surgical management of adult heart disease. Having trained and practised in Germany, the United States and Singapore, he has established an international clinical and academic profile in minimally invasive, endoscopic, robotic and hybrid cardiac surgery. His clinical practice encompasses the full spectrum of adult cardiac surgery, with treatment recommendations tailored to each patient’s individual condition and clinical needs.
His clinical expertise includes coronary artery bypass surgery, heart valve repair and replacement, aortic surgery, heart rhythm surgery, heart failure surgery, complex re-operative cardiac surgery, and hybrid cardiovascular interventions. Where clinically appropriate, minimally invasive surgical approaches may be considered as an alternative to conventional open-heart surgery. Depending on the patient’s condition and the procedure performed, these approaches may be associated with smaller incisions and recovery experiences that differ from conventional surgery.
Beyond his clinical practice, (Adj) Professor Theo Kofidis is actively involved in surgical education, research and innovation. Throughout his career, he has contributed to the development of minimally invasive cardiac surgery, surgical technologies and clinical programmes through his clinical and academic work. He has authored more than 190 peer-reviewed scientific publications, presented at national and international scientific meetings, and participated in the education and training of cardiac surgeons, while continuing to contribute to the advancement of cardiac surgery through research, collaboration and education.
Based in Athens, Professor Theo Kofidis provides cardiac surgical care to Greek and international patients. His approach is based on evidence-based medicine, personalised treatment planning, and the selection of the most appropriate surgical approach for each patient’s individual condition.
