CTS to Launch the OPCAB(TM) Midline Multi-Vessel System and the MIDCAB(TM)
                      Thoracotomy Modular Stabilizer Set

    CUPERTINO, Calif., Jan. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- CardioThoracic Systems, Inc.
(CTS) (Nasdaq: CTSI) today announced the expansion of its product line with
the introduction of two new product systems:  the OPCAB(TM) Midline
Multi-Vessel System and the MIDCAB(TM)  Thoracotomy Modular Stabilizer Set.
These two new product systems provide the cardiothoracic surgeon with the
option of using a midline or a thoracotomy approach in performing minimally
invasive (beating heart) bypass surgery.
    The OPCAB(TM) (Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass) Midline Multi-Vessel
System, through a midline approach, allows surgical revascularization of
multiple coronary arteries without the need for cardiopulmonary bypass.  This
is accomplished by the addition of multiple stabilization mounts on the CTS
OPCAB(TM) Platform, allowing the surgeon greater access through a midline to
the coronary arteries during a beating heart procedure.  With this continued
advancement in stabilization technology a surgeon can approach the heart from
several different angles.
    The MIDCAB(TM) Thoracotomy Modular Stabilizer Set incorporates in a single
system the capability to harvest the IMA and provide coronary stabilization
for the anastomosis.  The new universal drive mechanism allows for easy
exchange of modular blade sets.
    "The new OPCAB System and MIDCAB Set are exciting advancements in
minimally invasive (beating heart) bypass surgery," said Richard Ferrari, CTS
president and CEO.  "Now the surgeon has the option to utilize either a small
thorocotomy or a midline incision depending upon the specific patient
indications.  Our new products allow the surgeon to perform both single and
multi-vessel beating heart surgery."
    CTS will be exhibiting these new instruments at the Society of Thoracic
Surgeons Conference, New Orleans, Louisiana, January 25 through January 28,
along with its Access MV(TM) System.
    CardioThoracic Systems, Inc., Cupertino, Calif., is a leading developer of
proprietary technologies in minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery.  The
company's current products are designed to enable cardiothoracic surgeons to
perform minimally invasive (beating heart) bypass surgery.  CTS is also
developing technologies in the areas of minimally invasive valve repair and
replacement and saphenous vein harvesting.  The company's stock is traded on
the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol CTSI.
    This news release contains forward-looking information that involves risks
and uncertainties, including uncertainties associated with the capabilities of
the OPCAB Midline Multi-Vessel System and the MIDCAB Thoracotomy Modular
Stabilizer Set instrumentation, the OPCAB and MIDCAB procedures, as well as
the market acceptance of CTS products, procedures and programs.  Actual
results may differ significantly from the results discussed in the
forward-looking statements as a result of those and other factors, including
factors set forth in the company's annual report on Form 10-K filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 1997 and the company's most
recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on November 7, 1998.  Copies of the Annual Report on Form 10-K are
available by calling the company's investor relations department at
408-342-1700.
    For more information on CardioThoracic Systems, Inc. via fax at no cost,
dial 800-PRO-INFO or 908-544-2850 outside the U.S.  Ticker symbol: CTSI.

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