Minimally invasive approach for aortic arch branch vessel reconstruction.

Minimally invasive aortic arch branch vessel reconstruction was successfully accomplished in four patients over the past 3 years. There were no operative complications. Three patients had an uneventful hospital course, ranging from 3 to 5 days. The fourth patient with multiple medical problems and severe peripheral vascular disease had a prolonged hospital course for reasons unrelated to the surgical procedure. This minimally invasive surgical exposure can be used to effectively and safely repair innominate and left common carotid artery lesions.