Complications of Port-Access cardiac surgery

Port-Access cardiac surgery is a recent technology that is undergoing rapid development. The learning curve associated with this technique is a challe nge even for the skilled and experienced cardiac surgeon. Mainly because of femoral cannulation, the use of guidewires, and working through small inci sions, Port-Access cardiac surgery contains certain pitfalls that are clear ly associated with the technology involved. These pitfalls currently requir e troubleshooting, but as the technology progresses, this may become less o f an issue. Communicating these pitfalls to others is important to help oth ers to avoid or better manage complications and to contribute to improving the technology of Port-Access techniques.