loading page

Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement by Congenital Heart Surgeons: A Single Center Experience.
  • +6
  • Reilly D. Hobbs,
  • Megan Schultz,
  • Megan Loney,
  • Sonaal Verma,
  • Julia Xiong,
  • Eric Smith,
  • Richard G. Ohye,
  • Edward Bove,
  • * Ming-Sing
Reilly D. Hobbs
University of Utah Hospital

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

Author Profile
Megan Schultz
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile
Megan Loney
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile
Sonaal Verma
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile
Julia Xiong
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile
Eric Smith
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile
Richard G. Ohye
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile
Edward Bove
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile
* Ming-Sing
University of Michigan Department of Surgery
Author Profile

Abstract

Background Aortic root dilatation and aortic insufficiency can occur in patients with prior conotruncal defect surgery, the Ross procedure, and connective tissue disease (CTD). Valve-sparing aortic root replacement (VSRR) is an excellent choice for these young patients. We present the outcomes of young patients undergoing VSRR by congenital heart surgeons at a single center. Methods A single center retrospective chart review from April 2008 – April 2021 was performed. Patients with aortic root and valve pathology who underwent VSRR were identified. A total of 49 patients were identified by using the hospital surgical database. Three VSRR techniques were utilized during the study period; aortic valve-sparing root remodeling (Group 1, 7 patients), aortic valve-sparing root reimplantation (Group 2, 32 patients), and a modified root remodeling procedure utilizing a geometric annuloplasty ring (Group 3, 10 patients). Patient characteristics, post-VSRR echocardiogram studies and need for intervention, and survival were analyzed. Results Long-term survival after VSRR is excellent with only one death related to cardiac causes. Valve degeneration remains a concern with 13 patients (26%) requiring subsequent aortic valve replacement over the study period. Risk factors for aortic valve reintervention were the aortic root remodeling technique, mild or greater immediate post-operative aortic insufficiency and higher post-operative mitral insufficiency. Follow-up was significantly longer in Group 1 patients compared to Groups 2 and 3. Conclusions Valve-sparing aortic root replacement is safely performed by congenital heart surgeons in a heterogeneous patient population. Valve degeneration remains a concern and greater than trivial post-operative aortic insufficiency should prompt further attempts at valve repair or replacement.