Early Outcome of Mitral Valve Surgery comparing Minimally Invasive versus Standard Median Sternotomy Approach

Research Article

Early Outcome of Mitral Valve Surgery comparing Minimally Invasive versus Standard Median Sternotomy Approach

  • Yasser Mubarak *

*Corresponding Author: Yasser Mubarak, Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Minia University, El Minya, Egypt, Madinah Cardiac Center, King Fahd Hospital, Madinah, Saudi Arabia

Citation: Yasser Mubarak, (2022). Early Outcome of Mitral Valve Surgery comparing Minimally Invasive versus Standard Median Sternotomy Approach. J Thoracic Disease and Cardiothoracic Surgery, 3(2); DOI:10.31579/2693-2156/034

Copyright: © 2022, Yasser Mubarak. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Received: 27 December 2021 | Accepted: 19 January 2022 | Published: 01 February 2022

Keywords: minimal invasive cardiac surgery; right mini-thoracotomy; minimal invasive mitral valve surgery; standard median sternotomy

Abstract

Background: This study compares our experience of early outcome of mitral valve surgery (MVS) after minimally invasive (MI) versus standard median sternotomy (SMS) approach. 
Objective: Minimal invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) aims to avoid complications of SMS like; bleeding, postoperative pain, and sternal wound infection. It provides better cosmesis and early recovery. The aim of this study is to evaluate early clinical outcome of MIMVS. 
Patient and Method: It is prospective comparative cohort study in adult patients with mitral valve disease who perform MVS using either MI or SMS. From January 2020 to December 2021, early outcome of MVS between [120 patients] MI group through right mini-thoracotomy (RMT) with CPB peripheral cannulation and [120 patients] SMS group are compared. 
Result: Females are more in MIMVS (80%). ACC and CPB time are longer in MIMVS than SMS (118±15.5 vs 74.4±32.3, 155±28.5 vs 115±48.8). Tricuspid repair and left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion are performed only in SMS. Blood loss is lesser in MIMVS (250 ± 60.6 ml) than in SMS (550 ± 230 ml). Blood transfusion required (0.1 ± 0.53) in MIMVS, and (0.9 ± 0.7) in SMS. Re-exploration for bleeding is required in (4) cases of SMS. Mechanical ventilation time is shorter in MIMVS (6.4 ± 1.3) than in SMS (12.4 ± 6.8). ICU duration and hospital stay are shorter in MIMVS than SMS (2±0.4 vs 3.5±1.3, 7.2±1.3 vs 12±0.5). Wound infections present in (20) cases of SMS. Spirometric studies in MIMVS reveal better postoperative pulmonary functions than SMS group. Pain Visual Analog Score at discharge is better in MIMVS (1.4 ± 0.6) than in SMS (8.5 ± 1.5). There is no hospital mortality in both groups. 
Conclusion: Minimal invasive mitral valve surgery is a safe procedure and improves cosmesis and patient’s satisfaction.                   

Introduction

Inspite of availability of minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) technique for long time ago, most of cardiac surgeons remained reluctant to perform MICS. [1] Many obstacles included a learning curve and special instruments required. Also, it had disadvantages of longer cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, difficult visualization and poor exposure of operative field. [2] Moreover, it carried a high risk of stroke because of inadequate deairing. [3] Poor exposure of the surgical field in MICS was present in patients with average body weight; obese patients were added more high surgical risk [4, 5].

MICS was introduced to overcome morbidity associated with standard median sternotomy (SMS). Its access achieved through right minithoracotomy (RMT). The advances in instruments and cannula systems had allowed surgeons to perform MICS easily. Moreover, there was a need to overcome limitations of increased CPB time, difficult deairing and added more complex surgery [4].

The advantages of smaller surgical incisions were including early recovery, less postoperative pain, better cosmesis and carried low risk of wound infection [5,6]. With MICS approach, high-risk patients might benefit more from limiting surgical trauma with this approach. [4] There are efforts to decrease incision length, enhanced recovery, and better patient’s satisfaction, without drawback on surgical techniques [7]. Improved cosmesis should not be only indication for MICS; however, it is a welcomed added benefit [4].

Other benefits of MICS included reduced blood loss, blood transfusion, and atrial fibrillation (AF), shorter intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stays [2]. Minimal invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) had been associated with mortality rates of 1.2% - 5.8% [6].

Patients and Method

After approval by the local ethical committee of our centre 240 consecutive patients with mitral valve disease were prospectively included in the study from January 2020 to December 2021. All patients gave written informed consent after the study protocol and the potential risks associated with the procedure had been outlined in details. Patients who had undergone MIMVS compared with patients who had undergone SMS. The mitral valve was either (8) repaired or (112) replaced in (120) patients by means of MIMVS approach through RMT. MIMIVS was performed according to patients` acceptance and desire, if there were no contraindications. Demographics and preoperative patient data were summarized in (Table 1). Inclusion criteria were elective mitral valve surgery. Exclusion criteria were mitral surgery with other concomitant cardiac surgery, emergency and redo surgery, endocarditis,  ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR), low EF (less than 30%), chest wall deformity, previous thoracotomy or thoracic radiation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (FEV1 < 1 L), and liver or kidney failure.

Figure

Variables

MIMVS (n=120)

SMS (n=120)

Age (Mean ± SD)

42.6 ± 12.8

48.5 ± 13.4

Female gender

80%

20%

Diabetes Mellitus

3%

2%

Body Surface Area (Mean ± SD)

1.7±0.1

1.67±0.1

Preoperative NYHA (Mean ± SD)

3.50±0.5

3.2±0.6

AF

25%

30%

LVEF % (Mean ± SD)

53.8±16.2

56.8±9.8

PASP (mmHg) (Mean ± SD)

48.9±18.7

43±15.3

Mitral Valve Pathology  [case]

Mitral stenosis

Mitral insufficiency

Mixed 

 

80

10

30

 

65

20

35

Tricuspid Regurgitation  [case]

Mild 

Moderate  

Severe  

 

90

23

7

 

80

20

20

AF: atrial fibrillation, MIMVS: minimal invasive mitral valve surgery, NYHA: New York Heart association, LVEF: left ventricular ejection fraction, PASP: pulmonary artery systolic pressure, SMS: standard median sternotomy

Table 1: Demographics and preoperative patient data

Patients for MIMVR should include careful history for relevant comorbidities, clinical examination, echocardiography, pulmonary function testing (PFT) and coronary angiography when indicated. Preoperative computed tomography aortography (CTA) provides valuable information regarding aortic aneurysm, tortuosity, atherosclerosis, and femoral artery suitability for cannulation. 

Operative data were including CPB time, and aortic cross clamp (ACC) time, mortality and morbidity (stroke, prolonged ventilation, bleeding, renal failure, and wound infection) were recorded.

Sternal wound infection (SWI) are either superficial (SSWI) including skin and subcutaneous, or deep (DSWI) including sternal bone exposure with/out stability, necrotic bone, and heart exposure, with/out septicemia 

Patients were positioned in a supine position with the right side of the chest slightly elevated Photo (1 2). External defibrillator pads were placed on the chest. Intraoperative trans-esophageal echo (TEE) was obtained for all the patients. CPB was performed through peripheral cannulation technique. Femoral artery was cannulated with a 16F - 18F arterial cannula, and femoral vein was cannulated with a 25F venous cannula through open technique. Two venous drainage cannulas were routinely used at our center; the anesthesiologist placed a wire in right internal jugular vein (IJV) before draping. The cannula for superior vena cava (SVC) was placed percutaneously from the neck. Cannulation for Bicaval cannulation was performed; the tip of the femoral cannula was positioned just below the junction of inferior vena cava (IVC) and right atrium. 

The mitral valve is approached through RMT, and infra-mammary incision (5- 6 cm) is made. This incision is made (1-2 cm) inferior to the nipple in men and about (1cm) above the breast crease in women, with subsequent soft tissue dissection directed toward the chest wall to allow entry into the thoracic cavity through 4th intercostal space. The soft tissue retractor and metallic multiuse retractors allow optimal exposure Photo [3,4]. The pericardium was opened above and parallel to the right phrenic nerve to expose the roof of the left atrium extending from aorta to diaphragm. Exposure was enhanced by placing three stay sutures in the pericardium; small hooks (crochet) pulled the stay sutures outside chest. Poor exposure of operative field, due to high diaphragmatic dome, overcame by silk stay suture placed on the central tendon of the diaphragm and pulled out of chest. This stitch should not be released, but be tied tightly at the end of the operation, to avoid any oozing from diaphragm. A combined Y-shape cardioplegia/aortic vent catheter is placed into the ascending aorta. CPB was initiated with moderate hypothermia (32°C).Venous drainage is achieved with vacuum assistance of approximately - 40 mmHg. Chitwood clamp was then inserted through a separate stab. Carbon dioxide flow used to reduce retained intracardiac gas. A special atrial retractor used to obtain MV exposure. The surgeon should size the atrial retractor blade to properly elevate the intra-atrial septum anteriorly and slightly to the left. A stab incision is made over the right sternal margin, and the retractor handle is bluntly passed though skin, and then screwed to the blade which is manually introduced into the chest Photo [5]. When the heart was empty before releasing aortic cross-clamp, a ventricular pacing wire was placed. During deairing patient was in a deep Trendelenburg position, aggressive filling the heart, positive pressure ventilation, and confirmed by TEE. After discontinuing CPB and administering protamine, decannulation was performed. The purse string sutures were tied, and femoral artery was reinforced using 5/0 Prolene suture. The thoracotomy incision was closed in the routine manner. Photo [6,7] Careful hemostasis is crucial and should be checked before chest closure by dental mirror to avoid bleeding from chest wall. When the hemostasis secured, two 28Fr chest drains placed into the pericardium and right pleural space. The pericardium is closed with 2–3 single sutures. 

The statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software package (version 20.0; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). The analyzed data were expressed as number (N), percentage (%), mean (M) and standard deviation (SD) or as proportions. P-value < 0>

Results

Demographics and preoperative patient data of both groups were similar except, MIMVS was more common in female gender (80%). (Table 1) Also, intra-operative data in both groups were similar except, tricuspid repair in SMS group has significant p-value < 0>

Variable

MIMVS (n=120)

SMS (n=120)

ACC time (min)

118±15.5

74.4±32.3

CPB time (min)

155±28.5

115±48.8

Mitral valve replacement [case]

Mechanical valve

Tissue valve

112

100

12

110

100

10

Mitral valve repair [case]

 

8

10

Tricuspid repair [case]

0

35

33 ring 

2 Mini band

ACC: aortic cross clamp, CPB: cardiopulmonary bypass, LAA: left atrial appendage

Table 2: Intra-operative data in both groups

In our study, postoperative data in both groups were showing more blood loss and more blood transfusion required (Figure 1), high rate of wound infection Photo (8), prolonged hospital stay, and more  pain according to pain visual analog  scale (VAS) at time of discharge in group SMS. (Table 3) Duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU, and hospital stay time were more in SMS group (Figure 2).

Figure 1: Blood loss and transfusion in two groups
Figure 2: Duration of MV, ICU, and hospital stay time in both groups

Variable

MIMVS(n=120)

SMS (n=120)

Wound Infection

Superficial

Deep

0

0

0

20

15

5

Pacemaker Implantation

1

1

Blood loss (ml) in drains 

250 ± 60.6

550 ± 230

Blood Transfusion

0.1 ± 0.53

0.9 ± 0.7

Re-exploration for bleeding

0

4

Mechanical ventilation time (hours)

6.4 ± 1.3

12.4 ± 6.8

ICU duration (days)

2±0.4

3.5±1.3

Length of hospital stay (days)

7.2±1.3

12±0.5

Pain (VAS) at discharge

1.4 ± 0.6

8.5 ± 1.5

Length of Incision

5-8 cm

6.2±1.3

 

15-20 cm

16.3±5.8

VAS: visual analog scale

Table 3: Post-operative data in both groups

Blood loss in MIMVS was (250 ± 60.6) vs (550 ± 230) in SMS group, which showed significant statistically difference. Wound infection was (9) cases of SMS. In SMS group, there were (15) cases superficial sternal wound infection (SSWI), and (5) cases deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) needed vacuum [VAC]. DSWI had sternal bone exposed but still stable with positive culture (Staph. Aureus). Photo (9)

In our study, preoperative PFT was done to all patients prior to surgery, during the morning in sitting position. The preoperative spirometric study showed no significant statistically difference between the two groups. (Table 4) Postoperative Spirometric study was performed to all patients on the 7th postoperative day (POD). In group MIMVS, spirometric study revealed that, PFT had no significant reduction after surgery denoting better postoperative PFT than SMS group (Table 5).

Variable

MIMVS (n=120)

SMS (n=120)

FVC (L)

 

2.54 ± 0.67

 

2.91 ± 0.83

FEV1 (L)

 

2.15 ± 0.5

 

2.7 ± 0.6

FEV1/FVC

89.14 ± 5.8

91.75 ± 3.8

 FEV1: forced expiratory volume in one second, FVC: forced volume capacity

Table 4: Preoperative spirometric study in both groups.

Variable

MIMVS (n=120)

SMS (n=120)

FVC (L)

 

2.19 ± 0.72

1.52 ± 0.36

FEV1 (L)

2.02 ± 0.63

 

1.43 ± 0.38

 

FEV1/FVC

90.83 ± 9.81

 

93.92 ± 7.27

 

FEV1: forced expiratory volume in one second, FVC: forced volume capacity

Table 5: Post-operative pulmonary functions in both groups.

Mitral valve replacement (prosthetic or bioprosthetic valve), and repair were similar in both groups. However, tricuspid repair (ring or mini-band) and left atrial occlusion were recorded only in SMS group. There were postoperative significant p-value of FVC and FEV1, however insignificant p-value of FEV1/FVC between both groups. 

There were no hospital mortality and all patients were discharged with normal valve function according to postoperative echo. At most recent follow-up, all patients were in functional class I, with resumption of normal activity earlier than SMS group.

Discussion

Some surgeons remained concerned about the risk of groin wound infection, and risk of vascular injury due to peripheral cannulation in MICS. [8] In our study, there was not any wound infection at cannulation site. There were no recorded wound infection, vascular or neurological complications because of good preoperative preparation of cases, proper learning curve, clinical history, and CT aortography. 

Peripheral cannulation and retrograde arterial perfusion carried a risk of retrograde dissection, embolization, and ipsilateral limb ischemia and was associated with an increased risk of stroke in patients with severe peripheral vascular disease (PVD). [9,10] In our study, full clinical history, CT aortography, and with TEE guidance all those complications were avoided. 

MIMVS through RMT was safe procedure as SMS approach in elderly [11]. In our study, patients aged (42.6 ± 12.8 years) in MIMVS group, however it is promising in all age groups when contraindications are absent.

MV repair through RMT provides a durable and safe alternative to SMS with benefits of improved cosmesis, reduced postoperative pain, less blood loss with fewer blood transfusions, low incidence of infection, shorter hospital stay, and faster return to activity [12]. It can be performed with the same incidence of mortality, and morbidity to SMS [13]. In our MIMVS group, 12 patients underwent mitral repair [9 with ring and 3 with mini-band] with good results with competent repair within 3-month follow up. 

Some surgeons believed that RMT might be as painful as SMS. There were methods to reduce postoperative pain like, minimization of rib-spreading, and intercostal nerve block (INB) by bupivacaine injection [14]. In our study, Pain VAS at the time of discharge was better in MIMVS than in SMS with significant p-value (<0>

Patient selection was the first important step to prevent complications [14]. With time, despite a steep learning curve, surgeons expanded this approach to perform more complex procedures, and included patients with more comorbidity, and high body mass index (BMI). [16] Although, obese patients had more comorbidity, they did not have an increase in mortality during cardiac surgery. MIMVS in obese patients had a lower morbidity and mortality when compared with SMS. [17] In our study, there were no significant statistically difference in preoperative comorbidity conditions; DM (3% MIMVS, 2% SMS), BSA (1.7±0.1 MIMVS, 1.67±0.1 SMS), NYHA class (3.50±0.5 MIMVS, 3.2±0.6 SMS), AF (15 MIMVA, 18 SMS), EF (53.8±16.2 MIMVS, 56.8±9.8 SMS), and FEV1 (2.15 ± 0.5 MIMVS, 2.7 ± 0.6 SMS) 

Hybrid PCI and MIMVS in patients with prior cardiac surgery is more advantageous than CABG and mitral valve surgery by SMS. [16] However, there were neither redo nor ischemic MR cases in our study.

Many surgeons and their patients are beginning to believe that smaller incisions are always better because of less pain, faster recovery, and more satisfactory cosmetic result. However, CPB, and total operative times are significantly longer 40% or more. Smaller incisions are more “patient friendly” for the surgeons [18]. In our study, length of incision was (6.2±1.3) in MIMVS, and (16.3±5.8) in SMS with significant p-value.

RMT approach was associated with less new-onset AF, pneumonia, respiratory failure, and acute renal failure, lower drain output, and fewer blood transfusions. [3] Chest drains output was (250 ± 60.6ml) in MIMVS, and (550 ± 230ml) in SMS, with significant p-value < 0>

MIMVS is a safe procedure associated with low operative mortality. In addition to improved cosmetics, it provides shorter ventilation time; shorter ICU and hospital stay, and earlier return to full activities [19]. Preoperative predictors of mortality included advanced age, DM, smoking, dialysis, lung disease, congestive heart failure, and PVD [3]. In our study, there was not any perioperative mortality. There was no significant p-value between both groups in mechanical ventilation time (6.4 ± 1.3 MIMVS, 12.4 ± 6.8 SMS), and ICU stay (2±0.4 MIMVS, 3.5±1.3 SMS). However, significant p-value (<0>

MIMVS in elderly patients yields a lower morbidity and mortality when compared with SMS and should be considered when such individuals require valve surgery. [20] In our study, both groups included adult age. Also, we excluded ischemic or redo cases which were common in elder.

MIMVS has been associated with mortality rates of 1.2% - 5.8%. Moreover, it is often associated with enhanced recovery and better patient satisfaction. [6] Today, MIMVS became preferred at many centers owing to less postoperative bleeding and AF, reduced incidence of wound infection, and shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery, and improved cosmesis [21]. In our center, patients asked to perform MICS for cosmesis, less painful, short hospital stay especially with era of covid-19.

Cardiac surgery has shown a progressive and increasing interest towards the development of MICS. It represents a significant change in the way cardiac surgeons treat their patients today. It brings new challenges to the surgeon as well as the anesthesiologist.  However, it significantly demands learning curves for the team and technical challenges for the operating surgeons are commonly required. MIMVS is rapidly growing with excellent results comparable with SMS approach: it has set equivalent perioperative mortality and less pain, less wound infection, less blood loss, less transfusions and re-explorations for bleeding, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery.

Conclusion

Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery has been proven a feasible alternative to standard median sternotomy approach with low early morbidity and short-term mortality.

Limitations

Each group has small number of patients because of short time of the study. One center experience with some bias of selection of cases was presented. Inspite of that was prospective study, it was not randomized.

Abbreviations

ACC: aortic cross clamp, AF: atrial fibrillation, BMI: body mass index, BSA: body surface area, DM: diabetes mellitus, DSWI: deep sternal wound infection, CPB: cardiopulmonary bypass, CABG: coronary artery bypass grafting, CTA: computed tomography aortography, ICU: intensive care unit, IVC: inferior vena cava, IJV: internal jugular vein, INB: intercostal nerve block, IMR: ischemic mitral regurge, LAA: left atrial appendage, FEV1: forced expiratory volume in one second, FVC: forced volume capacity, MI: minimal invasive,  MICS: minimal invasive cardiac surgery, MIMVS: minimal invasive mitral valve surgery, MVS: mitral valve surgery,  LOS: length of stay,  PCI: percutaneous coronary intervention, PFT: pulmonary function test, POD: postoperative day,  PVD: peripheral vascular disease,  RMT: right minithoracotomy, SMS: standard median sternotomy, SSWI: superficial sternal wound infection,  SVC: superior vena cava,  TEE: transesophageal echo,  VAS: visual analog scale

Declarations

Ethics approval and consent to participate: - Patient confirms that have read and understood the information about the research as provided in the participant information sheet inside his file. The study has got the formal approval and permission from Heart Team Meeting Ethical Committee at MCC approval before to start the study. The study conformed to the principles of “Declaration of Helsinki” and the investigator followed the appropriate safeguards regarding the rights and welfare of the human participants that have been included in the performed study. Research Reference No. 2020 R103

Consent for publication

It was obtained written consent from patients.

Availability of data and material:

It is available from recording (paper and in computer system) files and data at Madinah cardiac center adult cardiac surgery department. 

Competing Interests

None to declare.

Funding

None.

References

Clearly Auctoresonline and particularly Psychology and Mental Health Care Journal is dedicated to improving health care services for individuals and populations. The editorial boards' ability to efficiently recognize and share the global importance of health literacy with a variety of stakeholders. Auctoresonline publishing platform can be used to facilitate of optimal client-based services and should be added to health care professionals' repertoire of evidence-based health care resources.

img

Virginia E. Koenig

Journal of Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Intervention The submission and review process was adequate. However I think that the publication total value should have been enlightened in early fases. Thank you for all.

img

Delcio G Silva Junior

Journal of Women Health Care and Issues By the present mail, I want to say thank to you and tour colleagues for facilitating my published article. Specially thank you for the peer review process, support from the editorial office. I appreciate positively the quality of your journal.

img

Ziemlé Clément Méda

Journal of Clinical Research and Reports I would be very delighted to submit my testimonial regarding the reviewer board and the editorial office. The reviewer board were accurate and helpful regarding any modifications for my manuscript. And the editorial office were very helpful and supportive in contacting and monitoring with any update and offering help. It was my pleasure to contribute with your promising Journal and I am looking forward for more collaboration.

img

Mina Sherif Soliman Georgy

We would like to thank the Journal of Thoracic Disease and Cardiothoracic Surgery because of the services they provided us for our articles. The peer-review process was done in a very excellent time manner, and the opinions of the reviewers helped us to improve our manuscript further. The editorial office had an outstanding correspondence with us and guided us in many ways. During a hard time of the pandemic that is affecting every one of us tremendously, the editorial office helped us make everything easier for publishing scientific work. Hope for a more scientific relationship with your Journal.

img

Layla Shojaie

The peer-review process which consisted high quality queries on the paper. I did answer six reviewers’ questions and comments before the paper was accepted. The support from the editorial office is excellent.

img

Sing-yung Wu

Journal of Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery. I had the experience of publishing a research article recently. The whole process was simple from submission to publication. The reviewers made specific and valuable recommendations and corrections that improved the quality of my publication. I strongly recommend this Journal.

img

Orlando Villarreal

Dr. Katarzyna Byczkowska My testimonial covering: "The peer review process is quick and effective. The support from the editorial office is very professional and friendly. Quality of the Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions is scientific and publishes ground-breaking research on cardiology that is useful for other professionals in the field.

img

Katarzyna Byczkowska

Thank you most sincerely, with regard to the support you have given in relation to the reviewing process and the processing of my article entitled "Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of The Prostate Gland: A Review and Update" for publication in your esteemed Journal, Journal of Cancer Research and Cellular Therapeutics". The editorial team has been very supportive.

img

Anthony Kodzo-Grey Venyo

Testimony of Journal of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology: work with your Reviews has been a educational and constructive experience. The editorial office were very helpful and supportive. It was a pleasure to contribute to your Journal.

img

Pedro Marques Gomes

Dr. Bernard Terkimbi Utoo, I am happy to publish my scientific work in Journal of Women Health Care and Issues (JWHCI). The manuscript submission was seamless and peer review process was top notch. I was amazed that 4 reviewers worked on the manuscript which made it a highly technical, standard and excellent quality paper. I appreciate the format and consideration for the APC as well as the speed of publication. It is my pleasure to continue with this scientific relationship with the esteem JWHCI.

img

Bernard Terkimbi Utoo

This is an acknowledgment for peer reviewers, editorial board of Journal of Clinical Research and Reports. They show a lot of consideration for us as publishers for our research article “Evaluation of the different factors associated with side effects of COVID-19 vaccination on medical students, Mutah university, Al-Karak, Jordan”, in a very professional and easy way. This journal is one of outstanding medical journal.

img

Prof Sherif W Mansour

Dear Hao Jiang, to Journal of Nutrition and Food Processing We greatly appreciate the efficient, professional and rapid processing of our paper by your team. If there is anything else we should do, please do not hesitate to let us know. On behalf of my co-authors, we would like to express our great appreciation to editor and reviewers.

img

Hao Jiang

As an author who has recently published in the journal "Brain and Neurological Disorders". I am delighted to provide a testimonial on the peer review process, editorial office support, and the overall quality of the journal. The peer review process at Brain and Neurological Disorders is rigorous and meticulous, ensuring that only high-quality, evidence-based research is published. The reviewers are experts in their fields, and their comments and suggestions were constructive and helped improve the quality of my manuscript. The review process was timely and efficient, with clear communication from the editorial office at each stage. The support from the editorial office was exceptional throughout the entire process. The editorial staff was responsive, professional, and always willing to help. They provided valuable guidance on formatting, structure, and ethical considerations, making the submission process seamless. Moreover, they kept me informed about the status of my manuscript and provided timely updates, which made the process less stressful. The journal Brain and Neurological Disorders is of the highest quality, with a strong focus on publishing cutting-edge research in the field of neurology. The articles published in this journal are well-researched, rigorously peer-reviewed, and written by experts in the field. The journal maintains high standards, ensuring that readers are provided with the most up-to-date and reliable information on brain and neurological disorders. In conclusion, I had a wonderful experience publishing in Brain and Neurological Disorders. The peer review process was thorough, the editorial office provided exceptional support, and the journal's quality is second to none. I would highly recommend this journal to any researcher working in the field of neurology and brain disorders.

img

Dr Shiming Tang

Dear Agrippa Hilda, Journal of Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery, Editorial Coordinator, I trust this message finds you well. I want to extend my appreciation for considering my article for publication in your esteemed journal. I am pleased to provide a testimonial regarding the peer review process and the support received from your editorial office. The peer review process for my paper was carried out in a highly professional and thorough manner. The feedback and comments provided by the authors were constructive and very useful in improving the quality of the manuscript. This rigorous assessment process undoubtedly contributes to the high standards maintained by your journal.

img

Raed Mualem

International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews. I strongly recommend to consider submitting your work to this high-quality journal. The support and availability of the Editorial staff is outstanding and the review process was both efficient and rigorous.

img

Andreas Filippaios

Thank you very much for publishing my Research Article titled “Comparing Treatment Outcome Of Allergic Rhinitis Patients After Using Fluticasone Nasal Spray And Nasal Douching" in the Journal of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology. As Medical Professionals we are immensely benefited from study of various informative Articles and Papers published in this high quality Journal. I look forward to enriching my knowledge by regular study of the Journal and contribute my future work in the field of ENT through the Journal for use by the medical fraternity. The support from the Editorial office was excellent and very prompt. I also welcome the comments received from the readers of my Research Article.

img

Dr Suramya Dhamija

Dear Erica Kelsey, Editorial Coordinator of Cancer Research and Cellular Therapeutics Our team is very satisfied with the processing of our paper by your journal. That was fast, efficient, rigorous, but without unnecessary complications. We appreciated the very short time between the submission of the paper and its publication on line on your site.

img

Bruno Chauffert

I am very glad to say that the peer review process is very successful and fast and support from the Editorial Office. Therefore, I would like to continue our scientific relationship for a long time. And I especially thank you for your kindly attention towards my article. Have a good day!

img

Baheci Selen

"We recently published an article entitled “Influence of beta-Cyclodextrins upon the Degradation of Carbofuran Derivatives under Alkaline Conditions" in the Journal of “Pesticides and Biofertilizers” to show that the cyclodextrins protect the carbamates increasing their half-life time in the presence of basic conditions This will be very helpful to understand carbofuran behaviour in the analytical, agro-environmental and food areas. We greatly appreciated the interaction with the editor and the editorial team; we were particularly well accompanied during the course of the revision process, since all various steps towards publication were short and without delay".

img

Jesus Simal-Gandara

I would like to express my gratitude towards you process of article review and submission. I found this to be very fair and expedient. Your follow up has been excellent. I have many publications in national and international journal and your process has been one of the best so far. Keep up the great work.

img

Douglas Miyazaki

We are grateful for this opportunity to provide a glowing recommendation to the Journal of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy. We found that the editorial team were very supportive, helpful, kept us abreast of timelines and over all very professional in nature. The peer review process was rigorous, efficient and constructive that really enhanced our article submission. The experience with this journal remains one of our best ever and we look forward to providing future submissions in the near future.

img

Dr Griffith

I am very pleased to serve as EBM of the journal, I hope many years of my experience in stem cells can help the journal from one way or another. As we know, stem cells hold great potential for regenerative medicine, which are mostly used to promote the repair response of diseased, dysfunctional or injured tissue using stem cells or their derivatives. I think Stem Cell Research and Therapeutics International is a great platform to publish and share the understanding towards the biology and translational or clinical application of stem cells.

img

Dr Tong Ming Liu

I would like to give my testimony in the support I have got by the peer review process and to support the editorial office where they were of asset to support young author like me to be encouraged to publish their work in your respected journal and globalize and share knowledge across the globe. I really give my great gratitude to your journal and the peer review including the editorial office.

img

Husain Taha Radhi

I am delighted to publish our manuscript entitled "A Perspective on Cocaine Induced Stroke - Its Mechanisms and Management" in the Journal of Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery. The peer review process, support from the editorial office, and quality of the journal are excellent. The manuscripts published are of high quality and of excellent scientific value. I recommend this journal very much to colleagues.

img

S Munshi

Dr.Tania Muñoz, My experience as researcher and author of a review article in The Journal Clinical Cardiology and Interventions has been very enriching and stimulating. The editorial team is excellent, performs its work with absolute responsibility and delivery. They are proactive, dynamic and receptive to all proposals. Supporting at all times the vast universe of authors who choose them as an option for publication. The team of review specialists, members of the editorial board, are brilliant professionals, with remarkable performance in medical research and scientific methodology. Together they form a frontline team that consolidates the JCCI as a magnificent option for the publication and review of high-level medical articles and broad collective interest. I am honored to be able to share my review article and open to receive all your comments.

img

Tania Munoz

“The peer review process of JPMHC is quick and effective. Authors are benefited by good and professional reviewers with huge experience in the field of psychology and mental health. The support from the editorial office is very professional. People to contact to are friendly and happy to help and assist any query authors might have. Quality of the Journal is scientific and publishes ground-breaking research on mental health that is useful for other professionals in the field”.

img

George Varvatsoulias

Dear editorial department: On behalf of our team, I hereby certify the reliability and superiority of the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews in the peer review process, editorial support, and journal quality. Firstly, the peer review process of the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is rigorous, fair, transparent, fast, and of high quality. The editorial department invites experts from relevant fields as anonymous reviewers to review all submitted manuscripts. These experts have rich academic backgrounds and experience, and can accurately evaluate the academic quality, originality, and suitability of manuscripts. The editorial department is committed to ensuring the rigor of the peer review process, while also making every effort to ensure a fast review cycle to meet the needs of authors and the academic community. Secondly, the editorial team of the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is composed of a group of senior scholars and professionals with rich experience and professional knowledge in related fields. The editorial department is committed to assisting authors in improving their manuscripts, ensuring their academic accuracy, clarity, and completeness. Editors actively collaborate with authors, providing useful suggestions and feedback to promote the improvement and development of the manuscript. We believe that the support of the editorial department is one of the key factors in ensuring the quality of the journal. Finally, the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is renowned for its high- quality articles and strict academic standards. The editorial department is committed to publishing innovative and academically valuable research results to promote the development and progress of related fields. The International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews is reasonably priced and ensures excellent service and quality ratio, allowing authors to obtain high-level academic publishing opportunities in an affordable manner. I hereby solemnly declare that the International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews has a high level of credibility and superiority in terms of peer review process, editorial support, reasonable fees, and journal quality. Sincerely, Rui Tao.

img

Rui Tao

Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions I testity the covering of the peer review process, support from the editorial office, and quality of the journal.

img

Khurram Arshad

Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, we deeply appreciate the interest shown in our work and its publication. It has been a true pleasure to collaborate with you. The peer review process, as well as the support provided by the editorial office, have been exceptional, and the quality of the journal is very high, which was a determining factor in our decision to publish with you.

img

Gomez Barriga Maria Dolores

The peer reviewers process is quick and effective, the supports from editorial office is excellent, the quality of journal is high. I would like to collabroate with Internatioanl journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews journal clinically in the future time.

img

Lin Shaw Chin

Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude for the trust placed in our team for the publication in your journal. It has been a true pleasure to collaborate with you on this project. I am pleased to inform you that both the peer review process and the attention from the editorial coordination have been excellent. Your team has worked with dedication and professionalism to ensure that your publication meets the highest standards of quality. We are confident that this collaboration will result in mutual success, and we are eager to see the fruits of this shared effort.

img

Maria Dolores Gomez Barriga

Dear Dr. Jessica Magne, Editorial Coordinator 0f Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, I hope this message finds you well. I want to express my utmost gratitude for your excellent work and for the dedication and speed in the publication process of my article titled "Navigating Innovation: Qualitative Insights on Using Technology for Health Education in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients." I am very satisfied with the peer review process, the support from the editorial office, and the quality of the journal. I hope we can maintain our scientific relationship in the long term.

img

Dr Maria Dolores Gomez Barriga

Dear Monica Gissare, - Editorial Coordinator of Nutrition and Food Processing. ¨My testimony with you is truly professional, with a positive response regarding the follow-up of the article and its review, you took into account my qualities and the importance of the topic¨.

img

Dr Maria Regina Penchyna Nieto

Dear Dr. Jessica Magne, Editorial Coordinator 0f Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions, The review process for the article “The Handling of Anti-aggregants and Anticoagulants in the Oncologic Heart Patient Submitted to Surgery” was extremely rigorous and detailed. From the initial submission to the final acceptance, the editorial team at the “Journal of Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions” demonstrated a high level of professionalism and dedication. The reviewers provided constructive and detailed feedback, which was essential for improving the quality of our work. Communication was always clear and efficient, ensuring that all our questions were promptly addressed. The quality of the “Journal of Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Interventions” is undeniable. It is a peer-reviewed, open-access publication dedicated exclusively to disseminating high-quality research in the field of clinical cardiology and cardiovascular interventions. The journal's impact factor is currently under evaluation, and it is indexed in reputable databases, which further reinforces its credibility and relevance in the scientific field. I highly recommend this journal to researchers looking for a reputable platform to publish their studies.

img

Dr Marcelo Flavio Gomes Jardim Filho

Dear Editorial Coordinator of the Journal of Nutrition and Food Processing! "I would like to thank the Journal of Nutrition and Food Processing for including and publishing my article. The peer review process was very quick, movement and precise. The Editorial Board has done an extremely conscientious job with much help, valuable comments and advices. I find the journal very valuable from a professional point of view, thank you very much for allowing me to be part of it and I would like to participate in the future!”

img

Zsuzsanna Bene

Dealing with The Journal of Neurology and Neurological Surgery was very smooth and comprehensive. The office staff took time to address my needs and the response from editors and the office was prompt and fair. I certainly hope to publish with this journal again.Their professionalism is apparent and more than satisfactory. Susan Weiner

img

Dr Susan Weiner

My Testimonial Covering as fellowing: Lin-Show Chin. The peer reviewers process is quick and effective, the supports from editorial office is excellent, the quality of journal is high. I would like to collabroate with Internatioanl journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews.

img

Lin-Show Chin

My experience publishing in Psychology and Mental Health Care was exceptional. The peer review process was rigorous and constructive, with reviewers providing valuable insights that helped enhance the quality of our work. The editorial team was highly supportive and responsive, making the submission process smooth and efficient. The journal's commitment to high standards and academic rigor makes it a respected platform for quality research. I am grateful for the opportunity to publish in such a reputable journal.

img

Sonila Qirko

My experience publishing in International Journal of Clinical Case Reports and Reviews was exceptional. I Come forth to Provide a Testimonial Covering the Peer Review Process and the editorial office for the Professional and Impartial Evaluation of the Manuscript.

img

Luiz Sellmann