What Is Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS)?

Best MICS Cardiac Surgeon in Delhi

Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) is changing the way heart surgeries are performed. With smaller incisions, quicker recovery, and fewer complications, MICS is rapidly becoming the preferred option for many patients. As one of the leading Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgeons in Delhi, Dr. Vaibhav Mishra brings years of expertise and cutting-edge techniques to ensure safer outcomes and faster healing.

This blog explains everything you need to know about MICS—what it is, who needs it, how it’s done, and what recovery looks like.

What is Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS)?

MICS refers to a set of advanced heart surgical techniques performed through small incisions, without splitting the breastbone (sternum). Unlike traditional open-heart surgery that requires a large 6-10 inch chest incision, MICS is done through 2–3 inch incisions on the side or front of the chest.

MICS allows surgeons to access the heart using specialized instruments and endoscopic cameras, offering the same precision and effectiveness as traditional surgery—but with less trauma to the body.

Conditions Treated with MICS

Dr. Vaibhav Mishra performs MICS for several cardiac conditions, including:

  • Mitral valve repair/replacement
  • Aortic valve replacement
  • Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
  • Atrial septal defect (ASD) closure
  • Removal of cardiac tumors
  • Tricuspid valve surgeries
  • Maze procedure for atrial fibrillation

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

Here’s why patients across India and abroad are increasingly choosing MICS:

  1. Smaller Incisions

Instead of a large chest opening, MICS uses small keyhole incisions, reducing physical and emotional scarring.

  1. Faster Recovery

Patients typically return to normal activities 2-3 times faster than with open-heart surgery.

  1. Less Pain & Discomfort

Avoiding the sternum means less postoperative pain, fewer painkillers, and more comfort during recovery.

  1. Lower Risk of Infection

Smaller wounds mean fewer chances of surgical site infections and complications like mediastinitis.

  1. Reduced Blood Loss

MICS leads to less intraoperative bleeding, reducing the need for blood transfusions.

  1. Shorter Hospital Stay

Most MICS patients are discharged within 3–5 days, compared to 7–10 days for traditional surgery.

  1. Better Cosmetic Results

Smaller incisions translate to minimal visible scarring, which is especially valued by younger and female patients.

How Is MICS Performed?

➤ Pre-Surgical Evaluation

Before the surgery, Dr. Vaibhav Mishra conducts:

  • Detailed echocardiography
  • Coronary angiography (if needed)
  • CT scan to assess chest anatomy
  • Blood work and anesthesia evaluation

➤ Anesthesia & Patient Positioning

MICS is done under general anesthesia. The patient is placed on their back or side, depending on the procedure.

➤ The Procedure

Instead of opening the chest, the surgeon:

  1. Makes small incisions (2–4 cm) between the ribs.
  2. Inserts a tiny camera and special surgical tools.
  3. Views the heart on a high-definition screen.
  4. Repairs or replaces the heart valve/vessel.
  5. Closes the incision with minimal sutures.

In some cases, a heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass) may still be used via peripheral access (groin or neck), but without opening the chest.

 

Who is an Ideal Candidate for MICS?

Not all patients are suitable for MICS. You may be an ideal candidate if:

  • Your heart condition is isolated (like a single valve issue).
  • You are not severely obese.
  • You do not have extensive prior chest surgeries.
  • Your imaging studies show favorable anatomy.

Dr. Vaibhav Mishra performs a thorough pre-op assessment to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.

Risks and Limitations of MICS

While MICS is generally safe, as with any surgery, there are potential risks:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
  • Stroke (very rare)
  • Conversion to open surgery (if complications arise)
  • Longer operative time (in some cases)

However, in experienced hands like Dr. Vaibhav Mishra’s, the complication rate remains very low and outcomes are excellent.

Recovery After Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery

At-Home Recovery Tips:

  • Rest but avoid prolonged bed rest—start walking within a few days.
  • Follow medication schedule, especially blood thinners and antibiotics.
  • Avoid heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks.
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
  • Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and heart function.

‍♀️ When Can I Resume Normal Activities?

Activity Timeline
Walking 1–3 days post-op
Office work 2–3 weeks
Driving 2–3 weeks (if off pain meds)
Exercise 4–6 weeks
Sexual activity 3–4 weeks
Air travel 3–6 weeks (after surgeon clearance)

Why Choose Dr. Vaibhav Mishra for MICS in Delhi?

Dr. Vaibhav Mishra is a renowned minimally invasive and MICS cardiac surgeon in Delhi, known for combining skill, compassion, and cutting-edge technology.

His MICS Advantages:

✅ Fellowship-trained in minimally invasive and robotic heart surgery
✅ Hundreds of successful MICS procedures
✅ Personalized treatment plans
✅ Affiliated with leading heart care hospitals in Delhi NCR
✅ Strong track record of patient satisfaction and safety

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Is MICS safer than open-heart surgery?

Yes, in selected patients, MICS offers the same success rate with fewer complications, less pain, and faster recovery.

❓ Will I need a heart-lung machine during MICS?

Depending on your condition, it may be used via peripheral access—but the chest is not opened.

❓ Can elderly patients undergo MICS?

Yes, if they meet the anatomical and functional criteria. Many elderly patients benefit from the quicker recovery.

❓ Will insurance cover MICS?

Most private and corporate insurance plans now cover MICS. Check with your provider.

 

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