The Evolution of Mitral Valve Surgery: the Future in the Hand of Robots

OBJECTIVE: To examine the current literature behind the evolution of mitral valve surgery techniques and their impact on patient outcomes. METHODS: An electronic literature search among major databases was performed (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google scholar). All the relevant articles were screened and identified to be included in this narrative review. The main outcomes were postoperative morbidity, length of in-hospital stay, and long-term mortality. RESULTS: Minimally invasive and robot-assisted approach to mitral valve repair and replacements has shown great potential in improving surgical outcomes when compared against traditional midline sternotomy. Selected patients can benefit from percutaneous mitral valve surgery; however, more evidence is required to ascertain its long-term outcomes. CONCLUSION: Current evidence suggests that robotic and minimal invasive mitral valve surgeries are increasing in practice with satisfactory perioperative and mortality rates. However, long-term data is yet to be published to support current practice.