Repair of partial atrioventricular septal defect through a modified right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy: a single-center experience - Report - MDSpire

Repair of partial atrioventricular septal defect through a modified right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy: a single-center experience

  • By

  • Heqi Zhang

  • Zehua Shao

  • Haoju Dong

  • Shubo Song

  • Fanwei Meng

  • Xiaoliang Qian

  • Taibing Fan

  • Weijie Liang

  • May 12, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Modified Right Vertical Infra-Axillary Thoracotomy for PAVSD

Overview

The modified right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy (MRVIAT) technique demonstrates safety and efficacy in repairing partial atrioventricular septal defect (PAVSD) across a wide age range, with no significant complications reported in a cohort of 64 patients. This approach offers aesthetic advantages and aligns with the trend towards minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

Background

The management of congenital heart defects, particularly atrioventricular septal defects, has evolved significantly, with a shift towards minimally invasive techniques that reduce surgical trauma and improve recovery times. The MRVIAT method integrates thoracoscopic principles to enhance surgical outcomes while minimizing the psychological impact of traditional median sternotomy incisions. Understanding the viability of MRVIAT is crucial for optimizing surgical strategies in pediatric and adult populations.

Data Highlights

ParameterValue
Number of patients64
Average age12.8 ± 16.5 years
Median body mass55.8 kg
Average operative duration177.0 ± 46.4 min
Mean duration of cardiopulmonary bypass98.2 ± 34.4 min
Mean aortic cross-clamp duration64.5 ± 23.1 min
Reoperation due to patch dehiscence1 patient

Key Findings

  • All 64 patients successfully underwent PAVSD repair without conversion to median sternotomy.
  • No fatalities or significant complications were observed during the study.
  • The average operative duration showed a decreasing trend, indicating a learning curve effect.
  • No moderate or severe valvular regurgitation was noted during follow-up.
  • Cardiac function remained within normal parameters for all individuals post-surgery.

Clinical Implications

The MRVIAT technique offers a promising alternative to traditional surgical approaches for PAVSD, particularly in terms of aesthetic outcomes and reduced recovery times. Clinicians should consider this method for suitable candidates, especially given its favorable safety profile and the potential for improved patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

The MRVIAT method is a secure and effective option for repairing PAVSD, demonstrating positive outcomes across a diverse patient age range. Continued evaluation and refinement of this technique may further enhance its application in congenital cardiac surgery.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Pediatric Cardiology, 2021 -- Is the Left Atrioventricular Valve Reduction Index (LAVRI) a Reliable Indicator for Determining Surgical Approaches in Atrioventricular Septal Defect Repair?
  2. Pediatric Cardiology, 2023 -- Outcomes of Combined Surgical Repair for Atrioventricular Septal Defect and Tetralogy of Fallot Over the Long Term
  3. Pediatric Cardiology, 2024 -- A National Comparison of Interventional and Surgical Strategies for Pulmonary Atresia with Intact Ventricular Septum: Insights from a Comprehensive Literature Review
  4. Surgical Endoscopy, 2024 -- Endoscopic Closure of Atrial Septal Defects in Functioning Beating Hearts
  5. Atrioventricular Septal Defect - Pediatrics - Merck Manual Professional Edition
  6. Over 3,000 Minimally Invasive Thoracotomies From the European Congenital Heart Surgeons Association for Quality Repairs of the Most Common Congenital Heart Defects: Safe and Routine for Selected Repairs
  7. Frontiers | Recent efficacy of modified right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy for ventricular septal defects in pediatric patients with younger age and Low body weight
  8. Atrioventricular Septal Defect - Pediatrics - Merck Manual Professional Edition
  9. Over 3,000 Minimally Invasive Thoracotomies From the European Congenital Heart Surgeons Association for Quality Repairs of the Most Common Congenital Heart Defects: Safe and Routine for Selected Repairs
  10. Frontiers | Recent efficacy of modified right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy for ventricular septal defects in pediatric patients with younger age and Low body weight

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