Debrecen4U
June 10, 2026
Minimally Invasive Procedures Revolutionise Heart Surgery in Debrecen
Surgical techniques performed through smaller incisions are gaining increasing ground worldwide, made possible by advances in modern technology and state-of-the-art equipment. Introducing the latest techniques was also a key objective at the Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery Clinic of the University of Debrecen’s Clinical Centre, and the specialists who launched the programme took part in several nationwide and international training courses, according to unideb.hu.
At present, most minimally invasive procedures carried out at the institution involve heart valves and the major blood vessels of the chest. One of the longest-established techniques involves only partially opening the sternum, leaving its lower third intact. This results in less tissue damage, reduced blood loss and a lower risk of infection.
“One of the longest-established procedures is cardiac surgery involving a partial division of the sternum, during which the lower third of the breastbone remains intact. The advantages include less disruption to respiratory mechanics, reduced tissue trauma, lower blood loss, less post-operative pain and a decreased risk of wound infections,” explained Tamás Szerafin, Head of Cardiac Surgery at the Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery Clinic of the University of Debrecen’s Clinical Centre.
In recent years, most heart valve operations have been performed through a 4–5 centimetre incision made between the ribs on the right side of the chest. During these procedures, specialised cameras provide magnified three-dimensional images, enabling valve repair operations aimed at preserving the patient’s own valve to be carried out with even greater precision.
One of the most significant advantages of the intercostal approach is that there is no need to divide the sternum. Patients can regain their physical activity more quickly, wound-healing complications are less common, and cosmetic outcomes are also more favourable. In certain cases, the incisions are placed beneath the armpit, leaving scars that are virtually invisible.
Further developments are planned in the near future. According to the clinic’s plans, the range of procedures that can be performed through small incisions will expand later this year to include minimally invasive coronary artery bypass surgery, as well as procedures aimed at treating certain cardiac arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation.
“The development does not stop here. According to our plans, the range of surgical procedures currently performed will be expanded later this year to include coronary artery bypass operations carried out through small incisions and interventions designed to eliminate certain types of cardiac arrhythmia, including atrial fibrillation. All of these techniques ensure the highest standard of surgical care for heart patients in the region,” added Tamás Maros, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon.
The specialists also emphasise that minimally invasive cardiac surgery is not suitable for every patient. In addition to conventional cardiological assessments, specialised CT scans and pulmonary function tests are required to determine eligibility, allowing surgeons to make an individualised decision regarding the most appropriate procedure.
According to the University of Debrecen Clinical Centre, the application of these modern techniques helps ensure that heart patients across the region receive the highest possible standard of surgical care.
Source: dehir.hu | Photo credit: Debrecen városa (Facebook)
