Traversing the learning curve in minimally invasive heart valve surgery: a cumulative analysis of an individual surgeon's experience with a right minithoracotomy approach for aortic valve replacement

Abstract

AVR can be safely performed through an RAMT with results comparable with the standard sternotomy technique. Patients undergoing this technique are not exposed to an increased operative risk also during the surgeon's initial experience. CUSUM analysis is a valuable tool to assess the learning curve of new surgical techniques and to implement continuous performance monitoring.