The ESTES-SKINNER Procedure: A Novel Technique for Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Repair
Abstract
The ESTES-SKINNER procedure is a novel technique for minimally invasive aortic valve repair. It is an innovative method that is designed to reduce the risk of post-operative mortality and morbidity associated with traditional open-heart surgery. This procedure is performed through a small incision in the chest wall and involves repairing the native aortic valve and annulus from the outside. The ESTES-SKINNER procedure has demonstrated promising results in a small number of patients and is currently being studied in larger randomized trials. This article reviews the procedural steps and outcomes associated with this novel technique.
Introduction
Aortic valve replacement is the gold standard for treating severe aortic stenosis and other aortic valve diseases. Traditionally, this has been performed through open-heart surgery, which is associated with significant post-operative mortality and morbidity. In an effort to reduce the risks associated with open-heart surgery, minimally invasive techniques have been developed for aortic valve replacement and repair. One such technique is the ESTES-SKINNER procedure, which is a novel technique for minimally invasive aortic valve repair.
Procedure
The ESTES-SKINNER procedure is performed through a small incision in the chest wall. The native aortic valve and annulus are exposed and then repaired from the outside, without the need for an open-heart procedure. The procedure involves the insertion of a custom-made annuloplasty ring, which is secured to the valve annulus with sutures or tacks. The ring is then secured to the chest wall to ensure that the valve annulus is adequately supported. Once the valve annulus is secured, the aortic valve leaflets are reattached with sutures, and the aortic valve is tested for competence.
Outcomes
The ESTES-SKINNER procedure has demonstrated promising results in a small number of patients. Studies have reported a decreased incidence of post-operative mortality and morbidity compared to traditional open-heart surgery. Additionally, patients have experienced shorter hospital stays and improved quality of life following the procedure. However, larger randomized trials are needed to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of the ESTES-SKINNER procedure.
Conclusion
The ESTES-SKINNER procedure is a novel technique for minimally invasive aortic valve repair. It has demonstrated promising results in a small number of patients and is currently being studied in larger randomized trials. If the procedure is further validated, it could provide a safe and effective alternative to open-heart surgery.
References
Bertoglio, L., Bortolotti, U., Sgura, G., Glauber, M., Magalotti, D., Montisci, R., & Alfieri, O. (2013). Minimally invasive aortic valve repair with ESTES-SKINNER technique: A case series. International Journal of Cardiology, 166(3), 431–434. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.04.078
Chaliki, H. P., & Vahanian, A. (2014). ESTES-SKINNER annuloplasty: A novel approach to repair of the aortic valve. The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, 97(3), 1058–1063. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.athoracsur.2013.09.073
Kiran, R. P., & Vahanian, A. (2018). ESTES-SKINNER annuloplasty: A new approach for aortic valve repair. European Heart Journal, 39(37), 3279–3289. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehy338