October 30, 2025
The Valley Hospital has successfully performed its first right anterior mini-thoracotomy (RAM-T) procedure, a minimally invasive surgical approach to aortic valve repair and replacement. The procedure was performed by Habib Jabagi, MD, Director of the Aortic Aneurysm Program at The Valley Hospital.
This minimally invasive procedure, involving a small incision less than 6 cm between the patient’s ribs to access the heart, offers select patients an alternative to a full sternotomy – a procedure that involves cutting through the entire breastbone for heart surgery.
A RAM-T procedure may be appropriate for patients who require an aortic valve replacement – a surgical procedure to replace a diseased valve – or ascending aortic aneurysm repair – a procedure to replace a weakened portion of the aorta with a graft.
When compared to traditional heart surgery, patients undergoing a RAM-T procedure may benefit from:
• Shorter post-procedure hospital stays, as patients may be discharged as early as three days post-surgery
• Quicker recovery time, allowing patients to return to daily activities after surgery
• No sternal precautions needed – patients can drive and use their arms normally versus waiting a full month
• Decreased risk of blood loss during surgery
• Improved respiratory function post-operatively, which is typically reduced post full sternotomy
• Improved cosmetic look with a small scar (less than 6 cm)
• Facilitates redo surgeries in the future that may require full sternotomy
“We are proud to continually offer the latest procedures and treatments for our patients,” said Dr. Jabagi. “RAM-T marks an important step in cardiac surgery innovation, combining advanced technology with a patient-first approach to care.”
For more information about heart surgery at Valley, please visit ValleyHealth.com/HeartSurgery.