also known as MIDCAB (Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting)
MIDCAB is performed through small incision on the lateral aspect of chest wall compared to traditional bypass surgery which requires median sternotomy (splitting of breastbone & opening central chest). MIDCAB is an off-pump beating heart surgery ( i.e., surgery is performed without stopping the heart).
The advantages of MIDCAB over traditional bypass surgery are:
Opening central chest (sternotomy) is avoided
Cosmetically better (no scar on central chest)
Less blood loss
Lower risk of infection & faster healing
Reduced stay in ICU stay & overall stay in hospital
Reduced post-operative chest discomfort, stroke & mortality
Improved postoperative lung function & quality of life
Quicker recovery