What is the surgical procedure called that involves a cut through the bone to access the heart?

The surgical procedure involving a cut through the bone to access the heart is known as median sternotomy. This technique is commonly used in a variety of cardiac surgeries as it allows for excellent access to the heart and surrounding structures. During a median sternotomy, the surgeon makes an incision along the midline of the chest, cutting through the sternum (breastbone) to create a clear and wide opening to the thoracic cavity. This is essential for procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repairs or replacements, and heart transplants.

Median sternotomy is preferred because it provides a direct route to the heart, allowing surgeons to manipulate the heart and access other critical areas in the thoracic cavity effectively. The other procedural approaches mentioned, while also used in thoracic surgery, do not specifically involve cutting through the sternum to reach the heart and thus serve different purposes in surgical contexts.