Left Atrial Roof Incision for Mitral Valve Interventions and Left Atrial Mass Resection: A Safe Alternative for Excellent Exposure. A Single Center Experience

Abstract

Proper visualization has always been the cornerstone for conducting proper cardiac interventions. Although many incisions have been described for mitral valve exposure, the feasibility of some comes at the expense of proper exposure. When it comes to a small left atrium, larger incisions may venture into critically situated structures, creating a heavy toll of increased morbidity and mortality. We aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a superior left atrium approach for mitral valve interventions and left atrial mass resection, particularly in a small left atrium.