Three-Year Results of Repaired Barlow Mitral Valves via Right Minithoracotomy versus Median Sternotomy in a Randomized Trial

<b><i>Objectives:</i></b> To clarify whether the results of repair of a complex mitral lesion (Barlow valve) at the intermediate-term follow-up are independent of the mode of surgical access [minithoracotomy vs. median sternotomy (MS)]. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> In a prospective randomized study of mitral repair for Barlow disease using either a minimally invasive (MI) approach or MS, we achieved an average follow-up of 3 years (echocardiography, physical examination and quality of life). Mitral repair was achieved with polytetrafluoroethylene chordal implantation for both leaflets. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Both groups inclu…