Periareolar access for minimally invasive cardiac surgery: The Brazilian Technique

The periareolar access has been the preferred technique used at our institution for minimally invasive cardiac surgery since 2006. The surgical approach consists of video-assisted minithoracotomy in the 4th
right intercostal space, through a periareolar incision. Initially, the technique was restricted to minimally invasive mitral valve surgeries but, due to its feasibility and safety, was soon incorporated as an ideal access for other cardiac pathologies such as tricuspid valve disease, atrial septal defect, atrial fibrillation, and pacemaker leads endocarditis.