Can surgery be used to treat congenital heart disease in children?

  Usual surgery for precordial disease is performed through a median sternotomy. The advantage is that a variety of simple and complex procedures can be performed. The disadvantage is that the incision is large, the incision scar on the chest is unsightly, and the wire that holds the sternum in place for life is left in the sternum. In case of infection, it is difficult to treat the incision. Nowadays, a significant part of the precordial surgery can be done through a very small incision in the right armpit, which is small and concealed. This is especially important for girls with aesthetic requirements.  The technique focuses on a specially designed aortic cannula perfectly applied during the operation. Now our cardiothoracic surgery department can routinely carry out this new technical program. The surgical damage is small, the postoperative recovery is significantly faster, and the hospital stay is shorter. However, whether the child’s condition is suitable for this surgical technique has to be decided carefully by the doctor after careful examination of the patient and the results of the cardiac ultrasound. After all, safety should be the most important and first priority for heart surgery, and it is best to meet the aesthetic needs of the patient on top of that.