A method for improved exposure of the mitral valve: cannulation of innominate vein and division of superior vena cava for extended left atriotomy in mitral valve operations.

A method of improved exposure of the mitral valve and subvalvular apparatus is described. Cannulation of the left innominate vein and division of the superior vena cava allow excellent exposure of the mitral valve and subvalvular apparatus. This method is particularly useful in patients with a small left atrium or deep chest.