Robot-assisted heart surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that helps correct heart valve disease, structural heart defects, and other heart problems. Heart surgeons at the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Cardiovascular Institute use the most advanced robotic technology to enhance vision, precision, and control.
Our heart surgeons perform robotic cardiac surgery using the da Vinci® surgical system to help elevate patient care. The flexible robotic arms can rotate in directions that are impossible for a human hand. A high-definition camera provides real-time, three-dimensional viewing of the heart.
Because surgery takes place through small incisions, patients often experience faster recoveries along with less scarring and risk of infection. Still, this surgical approach isn’t right for everyone. Your physician will assess your unique situation to determine the best treatment plan.
During robot-assisted heart surgery, your doctor will insert miniaturized instruments and a three-dimensional camera into your body through a tiny incision in the chest. Once inserted, your surgeon uses master controls to manipulate the instruments. The instruments will translate your surgeons’ movements into precise robotic movements inside your body. While the robotic system is assisting in the operation, your surgeon is in complete control the entire time.
During robotic-assisted heart surgery, your surgeon:
Robotic-assisted heart surgery can be used for a number of procedures, including:
Mitral valve repair is the preferred treatment for people with specific types of mitral disease. Robotic-assisted surgery allows precise reconstruction of even the most complex mitral leaflet abnormalities.
Minimally invasive, robotic-assisted heart valve replacement surgery or transcatheter is used to replace the mitral valve with a mechanical or tissue valve.
Congenital heart defects, or “holes” in the heart, can be patched and closed with a robotic approach.
Robotic-assisted heart bypass surgery can be performed to restore blood flow to your heart muscle.
