The Best Exposure of the Mitral Valve: The Pulmonary Veins Isolation Approach

Optimal exposure is one of the key factors for a successful MV surgery. Because the left atrium is located at the back of the heart, MV exposure may be very difficult. This article describes an approach which consists in sectioning the antrum of the pulmonary veins. By rotating and pulling out the heart, the mitral valve can be fully exposed. This technique is highly recommended for those cases with small left atrium.