Abstract: 【Abstract】Objective To summarize the experience of superior minor median sternotomy aortic valve replacement surgery. Methods From 2009.3 to 2011.11, 35 patients underwent superior minor median sternotomy aortic valve replacement operation were collected retrospectively. 13 patients were performed with the extracorporeal circulation through ascending aorta and right atrium, other 22 patients with extracorporeal circulation through femoral artery and femoral vein。Except for 10 patients, all the others got vacuum-assisted venous drainage(VAVD). 7 cases got drainage through pulmonary artery. Results 1 patients died of cerebral infarction on the 30th day after surgery. Delayed wound healing appeared in 2 patients. Cardiopulmonary bypass time was 92.3±15.6 min, aortic cross clamping time was 48.6±19.2 min, duration of postoperative mechanical ventilation was 8.6±1.5 hours, and postoperative hospital stay was 9.5±3.6 days (range, 8 days-16 days). Conclusions Superior minor median sternotomy aortic valve replacement surgery could keep integrity of the sternum. Compared with the traditional midsternalthoractomy, the surgery could offer quick recovery and excellent cosmetic effect to some patients. 【Key words】Superior minor median sternotomy; open heart surgery；Cardiac Surgery

Key words: Superior minor median sternotomy, open heart surgery, Cardiac Surgery