Abstract: Objective To evaluate whether patient elder than 70 can benefit from aortic valve replacement(AVR) with upper sternal mini-incision.
Methods From January 2017 to January 2020,85 patients elder than 70 underwent AVR in our department.All of the patients received AVR either with upper sternal mini-incision(minimally invasive group,n=46)or traditional median sternal incision(control group,n=39).Clinical observational index included durations of cardiopulmonary bypass,aortic cross clamp,postoperative assisted mechanical ventilator,intensive care unit(ICU)stay,postoperative drainage volume within 24 hours,postoperative hospital stay and probability of MACE.
Results There was no significant difference in the durations of cardiopulmonary bypass,aortic cross clamp, postoperative drainage volume within 24 hours and probability of MACE(P＞0.05).Compared to the control group,the durations of postoperative assisted mechanical ventilator,ICU stay and postoperative hospital stay were shorter（P＜0.05）.
Conclusion AVR with upper sternal mini-incision is a safe,effective and minimally invasive surgical technique among elder patients.

Key words: elder patients, upper sternum, mini-incision, aortic valve replacement, minimally invasive