From Six Cuts To One

(Adj) Professor Theo Kofidis has introduced a groundbreaking single-incision technique for repairing faulty heart valves at the National University Heart Centre, Singapore. Traditionally, surgeries for mitral and tricuspid valve diseases required multiple incisions. However, (Adj) Professor Kofidis has streamlined the procedure to involve just one 6 cm incision between the ribs, eliminating the need for additional ports. This innovative approach uses modified surgical tools, including a flexible steel plate to hold the heart incision open and a specialised aortic cross clamp. Besides improving cosmetic outcomes, the technique aims to reduce surgical complications and recovery time, setting a new standard in minimally invasive cardiac surgery.