[Thoraco-bisternotomy in cardiovascular surgery].

Median sternotomy associated with anterior lateral thoracotomy with section of the sternum opposite the gaping intercostal space is a classical, though rarely used, incisional approach. The authors are convinced that it is safe, easy to perform and well tolerated. Their experience in 14 cases without morbidity shows that its alleged problems are more theoretical than real. They recommend this approach for aneurysms of the thoracic aorta and in some cases for access to the atrial area and superior vena cava.