Cardioplegia delivery by transcutaneous pigtail catheter in minimally invasive mitral valve operations

Abstract

For cardioplegia delivery and removing air from the aorta in minimally invasive mitral valve operations, we would like to propose a cost-effective pigtail method. The 8F pigtail punctures the aorta, delivers cardioplegia, and stays in place for removing air from the aorta. We then slide its tip out of the aorta as an accessory drain. With more than 100 successes, we are using it in every case and would like to share it with peer surgeons.