Computer-enhanced telemanipulation in mitral valve repair: preliminary experience in Canada with the da Vinci robotic system.

BACKGROUND: Investigation into the surgical application of robot technology continues to expand. We report on the first case series of robotic-assisted mitral valve (RAMV) repair in Canada with use of the da Vinci telemanipulation system (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, Calif.). METHODS: Between February 2004 and August 2004, 10 patients with normal left ventricular function and severe mitral valve regurgitation underwent RAMV repair with use of …