Aortic valve-sparing operations in patients with aneurysms of the aortic root or ascending aorta

BACKGROUND: Aortic valve-sparing operations are an alternative to aortic root replacement in patients with aortic root aneurysms, or aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta in patients with ascending aorta aneurysms and dilated sinotubular junctions with consequent aortic insufficiency. METHODS: From 1988 to 2001, 230 patients underwent aortic valve-sparing operations for aortic root aneurysms (151 patients) or ascending aortic aneurysms with aortic insufficiency (79 patients). Two types of aortic valve-sparing operations were performed in patients with aortic root aneurysms: reimplantation of the aortic valve and remodeling of the aortic root. Mean follow-up was 3.8 +/- 2.8 years. RESULTS: Patients with aortic root aneurysms were younger, had less severe aortic insufficiency, less extensive vascular disease, and better left ventricular function than patients with ascending aorta aneurysms. The 8-year survival was 83% +/- 5% for the first group and 36% +/- 14% for the second. The freedom from aortic valve reoperation at 8 years was 99% +/- 1% for the first group and 97% +/- 2% for the second. In patients who had aortic root aneurysms, 3 developed severe aortic insufficiency (AI), and 15 developed moderate AI, for an 8-year freedom from significant AI of 67% +/- 7%. But freedom from AI was 90% +/- 3% after the technique of reimplantation, and 55% +/- 6% after the technique of remodeling (p = 0.02). In patients with ascending aortic aneurysms, the freedom from AI greater than 2+ at 8 years was 67% +/- 11%. CONCLUSIONS: The long-term results of aortic valve sparing for aortic root aneurysms are excellent, and reimplantation of the aortic valve may provide a more stable repair of the aortic valve than remodeling of the aortic root.     

Redo operations for recurrent aneurysmal disease of the ascending aorta and transverse aortic arch

Sixty-seven operations were performed in 59 patients for aneurysmal disease occurring after previous operations involving the ascending aorta and transverse aortic arch. The initial aortic pathological condition included the following: fusiform aneurysm due to medial degenerative disease in 34 patients, 12 of whom had Marfan's syndrome; aortic dissection in a previously undilated aorta in 23; and aneurysm persisting or occurring after brachiocephalic bypass in 2. One of the latter had an aneurysm because of aortitis. Various operations initially performed did not completely treat the disease, and certain complications occurred spontaneously, including infection and dissection. The residual pathological condition led to the development of aortic insufficiency, aortic dissection, coronary artery insufficiency, and progressive aneurysmal dilatation. These complications were treated by composite valve graft replacement of the aortic valve and ascending aorta or the transverse aortic arch or both, simple aortic valve replacement, graft replacement of the ascending aorta or arch or both, and suture of false aneurysm with viable tissue wrap. Twenty patients (34%) had an aneurysm of the distal aorta. The entire aorta was replaced in 3, thoracoabdominal segments in 9, and the abdominal aorta in 1. Of the 59 patients, 49 (83%) were early survivors and 40 (68%) were alive on January 1, 1985. Principles of therapy that may have prevented the complications leading to reoperation include aneurysm replacement at the time of aortic valve replacement and coronary artery bypass; total replacement of the ascending aorta and aortic valve in patients with Marfan's syndrome; the same procedure or aortic valve replacement and separate graft replacement in patients with non-Marfan's medial degenerative disease; ascending aortic replacement in all patients with dissection combined with valve resuspension, aortic valve replacement, or composite valve graft depending on the involvement of the aortic sinuses and the presence of aortic insufficiency.     

Effects of ascending aorta replacement on aortic root dilatation.

OBJECTIVE: Because of an increase of aortic root wall stress, prosthetic replacement of the ascending aorta might be a risk factor for the progressive increase of the aortic root dimension. Aim of the present study was to evaluate the aortic root diameter change and the progression of aortic valve regurgitation late after ascending aorta replacement for different ethiology. METHODS: Sixty-three late survivors after supracoronary ascending aortic replacement were evaluated. Forty-one patients were operated on for acute aortic dissecting aneurysm (group I) and 22 for chronic atherosclerotic non-dissecting aneurysm (group II). Aortic root diameter and aortic valve regurgitation were assessed echocardiografically after a mean follow-up of 63+/-31 months and were compared with those early after surgery. RESULTS: Seven patients of group I (17%) needed reoperation for aortic root dilatation or dissection. Twenty-five percent of the patients (15 of group I and 1 of group II) showed at least a 10% increase in aortic root diameter at follow-up (46.8+/-6.1 vs. 38.1+/-6.1mm, P<0.0001). Aortic root diameter increased almost exclusively in patients operated on for acute dissecting aneurysm. A significant worsening of aortic valve insufficiency with time was evident only in patients operated on for acute dissecting aneurysm with an higher incidence in those with progressive root dilatation. CONCLUSIONS: Both the increase of aortic root diameter and the progressive worsening of aortic valve insufficiency seem to justify a more aggressive treatment of the aortic root at the time of surgery for acute aortic dissecting aneurysm but not for chronic atherosclerotic non-dissecting aneurysms.     

Results of aortic valve-sparing operations.

OBJECTIVE: To review the late results of valve-sparing operations in patients with aortic root aneurysm and in those with ascending aortic aneurysm and aortic insufficiency. METHODS: From May 1988 to June 2000, 120 patients with aortic root aneurysm and 68 with ascending aortic aneurysm and aortic insufficiency underwent aortic valve-sparing operations. Patients with aortic root aneurysm were younger, were predominantly male, and had less severe aortic insufficiency than patients with ascending aortic aneurysm, who were older and often had aneurysm of the transverse arch. Forty-eight patients with aortic root aneurysm had the Marfan syndrome. The prevalence of aortic dissection was similar in both groups. Reconstruction of the aortic root was performed by reimplanation of the aortic valve in 64 patients and by remodeling of the aortic root in 56. Patients with ascending aortic aneurysm and aortic insufficiency were treated by replacement of the ascending aorta with reduction in the diameter of the sinotubular junction. Approximately two thirds of the latter patients also required replacement of the transverse aortic arch. The mean follow-up was 35 +/- 31 months for patients with aortic root aneurysm and 26 +/- 23 months for those with ascending aortic aneurysm. RESULTS: There were 2 operative and 5 late deaths in patients with aortic root aneurysm and 1 operative and 9 late deaths in patients with ascending aortic aneurysm. The 5-year survival for patients with aortic root aneurysm was 88% +/- 4% and for patients with ascending aortic aneurysm, 68% +/- 12% (P =.01). Severe aortic insufficiency developed in 2 patients, and they required aortic valve reoperation. The 5-year freedom from aortic valve reoperation was 99% +/- 1% for patients with aortic root aneurysm and 97% +/- 4% for those with ascending aortic aneurysm. Seven patients had moderate aortic insufficiency at the latest echocardiographic study. The 5-year freedom from severe or moderate aortic insufficiency was 90% +/- 4% in patients who had aortic root aneurysm and 98% +/- 2% in those who had ascending aortic aneurysm. CONCLUSIONS: Aortic valve-sparing operations have provided excellent clinical outcomes and few valve-related complications. The function of the reconstructed aortic root remains unchanged in most patients during the first 5 years of follow-up.     

Ross procedure for ascending aortic replacement

Background. Patients with aortic valve disease and aneurysm or dilatation of the ascending aorta require both aortic valve replacement and treatment of their ascending aortic disease. In children and young adults, the Ross operation is preferred when the aortic valve requires replacement, but the efficacy of extending this operation to include replacement of the ascending aorta or reduction of the dilated aorta has not been tested.

Methods. We reviewed the medical records of 18 (5.9%) patients with aortic valve disease and an ascending aortic aneurysm and 26 (8.5%) patients with dilation of the ascending aorta, subgroups of 307 patients who had a Ross operation between August 1986 and February 1998. We examined operative and midterm results, including recent echocardiographic assessment of autograft valve function and ability of the autograft root and ascending aortic repair or replacement to maintain normal structural integrity.

Results. There was one operative death (2%) related to a perioperative stroke. Forty-two of 43 survivors have normal autograft valve function, with trace to mild autograft valve insufficiency, and one patient has moderate insufficiency at the most recent echocardiographic evaluation. None of the patients has dilatation of the autograft root or of the replaced or reduced ascending aorta.

Conclusions. Early results with extension of the Ross operation to include replacement of an ascending aortic aneurysm or vertical aortoplasty for reduction of a dilated ascending aorta are excellent, with autograft valve function equal to that seen in similar patients without ascending aortic disease.     

升主动脉瘤合并主动脉瓣关闭不全的外科治疗

目的总结21例升主动脉瘤合并主动脉瓣关闭不全的外科治疗经验。方法19例行Bentall手术,2例行Cabrol手术;5例同时置换二尖瓣。术前心功能IV级15例,III级6例。动脉瘤直径6～11 cm,平均(8.5±2.6) cm;17例主动脉内膜有撕裂,其中5例升主动脉远端仍有夹层。主动脉瓣环直径2.7～5.4 cm,平均(3.2±1.8）cm。超声心动图检查均示主动脉瓣严重关闭不全。结果手术后无早、晚期死亡,术后超声心动图和造影检查示主动脉瓣关闭良好,移植的冠状动脉通畅、无扭曲,效果满意。结论动脉瘤直径大于6 cm时应及时随访和做预防性手术,一旦发现夹层动脉瘤应立即手术,Bentall手术治疗升主动脉瘤效果良好。     

Plication of the sinotubular junction for aneurysm of the ascending aorta associated with aortic regurgitation: a case report

A 63-year-old woman with aneurysm of the ascending aorta associated with AR due to dilatation of the sinotubular junction (STJ) and with poor LV function, who did not have Marfan syndrome, underwent a plication of the STJ and replacement of the ascending aorta. In operation, we simultaneously performed the plication of dilated STJ (60 mm) and the replacement of ascending aorta using a 26 mm Woven Dacron graft. Post-operative angiogram (1 POM) showed no aortic regurgitation and good recovery of the LV function. This procedure is less invasive, and indicated for patients without significant elongation or thickening of the aortic valve, especially when the patients have higher risk.     

Clinical outcomes after separate and composite replacement of the aortic valve and ascending aorta

Objectives

We sought to compare the clinical profile and outcomes of operations for aortic valve disease and ascending aortic aneurysm in patients treated with aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta or composite replacement of the aortic valve and ascending aorta (Bentall operation).

Methods

From 1990 through 2001, 133 patients had aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta, and 452 patients had Bentall operations. Aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta was performed in patients who had aortic valve disease and dilation of the ascending aorta, whereas the Bentall operation was performed in patients with aortic root abnormality and ascending aortic aneurysm. Mean follow-up was 4.6 ± 3.1 years and was 100% complete.

Results

Patients who had aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta were older (61 ± 13 vs 52 ± 16 years, P < .001) and more likely to have aortic stenosis, coronary artery disease, and mitral valve disease than those who had Bentall operations. The use of mechanical valves was equal in both groups (42% for aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta and 43% for the Bentall operation). Operative mortality was 5% for patients undergoing aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta and 4% for patients undergoing the Bentall operation (P = .45). Survival at 10 years was 57% ± 8% for patients undergoing aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta and 74% ± 4% for patients undergoing the Bentall operation (P = .04), but the type of operation had no effect on survival. Older age, moderate or severe left ventricular dysfunction, active endocarditis, previous cardiac surgery, and coronary artery disease were independent predictors of death. The freedom from reoperation at 10 years was 95% ± 5% for patients undergoing aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta and 94% ± 3% for patients undergoing the Bentall operation (P = .18). Reoperations were mostly because of tissue valve failure or endocarditis. The risk of valve-related complications was the same in both groups. No patient required reoperation for aortic root aneurysm after having aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta.

Conclusions

Aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta and the Bentall operation provide comparable long-term results. The Bentall operation is more appropriate for patients with aortic root abnormality and a dilated ascending aorta, whereas aortic valve replacement and supracoronary replacement of the ascending aorta is a perfectly acceptable operation for patients with aortic valve disease, normal or mildly dilated aortic sinuses, and a dilated ascending aorta.     

Long-term fate of the aortic root and aortic valve after ascending aneurysm surgery.

OBJECTIVE: The authors determined in which patients tube graft replacement could be used. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Tube graft replacement of ascending aortic aneurysms requires no coronary anastomoses and preserves the native aortic valve, but aortic insufficiency or aortic root aneurysms may develop requiring reoperation. Use of Bentall or Cabrol composite valve graft procedures obviates these problems but requires prosthetic valve replacement and coronary reattachment, both of which are associated with complications. These two procedures have been applied increasingly but because of renewed interest in aortic valve preservation and reconstruction, the authors determined in which patients tube replacement could be used. METHODS: The authors analyzed the fate of 277 patients, mean age 49 +/- 14 years, operated on between 1953 and 1992 by techniques that preserved the aortic root. The most common pathology was atherosclerosis in 104 patients. Perioperative mortality since 1975 was 14%. RESULTS: Fifteen patients required reoperation on the ascending aorta or aortic root; ascending aneurysm reoperation (6 patients); aortic valve replacement (8 patients), and a combined procedure (1 patient). Of these 15 patients, 8 had Marfan's syndrome, 10 had dissections, and 5 had medial degeneration/necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Simple tube graft replacement of the ascending aorta was a durable technique in patients without Marfan's syndrome or medial degeneration/necrosis and allowed preservation of the native aortic valve in many patients.     

A case of ascending aortic dissection after aortic valve replacement in congenital bicuspid aortic valve]

Congenital bicuspid aortic valve is a risk factor of aortic dissection, but the case is rare in Japan. Several reports described ascending aortic aneurysm after aortic valve replacement. In these reports, most of aneurysms were false aneurysm, but the cases of ascending aortic dissection were rare. In this case, dissecting aneurysm of the ascending aorta occurred 4 years after aortic valve replacement, which was performed with mechanical prosthesis because of infective endocarditis, and it was repaired successfully by the modified Cabrol's method. This case was congenital bicuspid aortic valve, and had already been complicated with moderate aortic dilatation in the ascending aorta. In patients of congenital bicuspid aortic valve with aortic dilatation, consideration of complete replacement of the ascending aorta with aortic valve replacement is important.     

Composite aortic root replacement using the classic or modified Cabrol coronary artery implantation technique

Background. We report in this study our results with composite aortic root replacement (CVR) using the classic or modified Cabrol coronary implantation technique. Material and methods. From October 2001 to March 2005, 25 patients underwent aortic root replacement. In all cases, the indication for surgery was a degenerative aneurysm with a diameter of more than 6 cm. Seven patients had undergone a previous aortic operation on the ascending aorta. Mean age was 53±13 years and 22 patients were male. Mean Euroscore was 5.2±2.4. Aortic insufficiency was present in all patients. Two patients had Marfan syndrome. Results. The 30-day mortality was 0%. Two patients required profound hypothermic circulatory arrest. Mean aortic cross-clamp time was 91±24 minutes and the mean circulatory arrest time was 24±15 minutes. No patients developed a pseudoaneurysm after the operation. Conclusion. We conclude that composite aortic root replacement with the classic or modified Cabrol technique results in a low operative mortality. However, it should be only used when a “button” technique is not feasible.     

Ascending aortic aneurysms with associated aortic regurgitation

A safe method for replacement of the entire aortic valve, root, and ascending aorta for aortic insufficiency associated with an ascending aortic aneurysm is supported. This method utilizes a composite synthetic graft and valve with direct annular suture and implantation of the coronary arteries in the graft. The advantages of the technique include a shortened operation and freedom from postoperative hemorrhage, paraprosthetic leakage, and recurrent aneurysm formation.     

Late Reoperations in Patients with Aortic Dissection

Aortic dissection is an evolving process that may require one or several reoperations after the initial emergency repair. From January 1977 to September 1993, 148 patients undement emergency surgery for type A acute aortic dissection. The replacement of the ascending aorta was extended to include the transverse arch in 43 patients (29%). One hundred fifteen patients (78%) survived surgery. During the same period, 37 patients required reoperation once (28), twice (7), or three times (2), for a total of 48 reoperations. Wenty-one patients had undergone initial repair in our instltution; 16 patients had been operated on elsewhere. Reoperation was indicated for: aortic valve disease (4); a new dissecting process (7); threatening aneurysmal evolution of a persisting dissection (34); or false aneurysm (3). The redo procedure involved: the aortic root and/or ascending aorta in 12 cases (group I); the ascending aorta and the transverse arch in 6 cases (group 11); the transverse arch alone in 8 cases (group III); the transverse arch and descending aorta, or the descending aorta alone in 11 cams (group IV); and the thoracoabdominal aorta in 11 cases (group V). Risk factors for reoperation were analyzed in the 115 survivors initially operated on at our institution. Seven of 20 Marfan patients (35%) versus 12 of 95 non-Marfan patients (12.6%) required reoperation (p < 0.02). None of the 31 patients surviving arch replacement at initial repair required a reoperation, versus 21 of 84 (25%) patients surviving replacement limited to the ascending aorta (p < 0.01). The overall mortality rate of reoperation was 18.9% (7/37), with a risk of 14.5% (7/48) at each procedure (group I 8.3%, group II 0%, group III 20%, group IV 18%, group V 27%). Hospital mortality was influenced by whether the operation was done as an emergency (5/10) (p < 0.005), and whether thoracoabdominal replacement was required (3/11) (p < 0.03). The late survival rate after reoperation is 67.1%± 17.6% at 1 year, and 57%± 19.6% at 5 years (Kaplan-Meier CI 95%). The late survival rate, after initial repair, of reoperated patients is 89.6%± 11.0% at 1 year, 79.3%± 14.7% at 5 years, 53.9%± 18.1% at 10 years, and 35.9%± 21.8% at 12 years. In conclusion, elective reoperation should be considered before the occurrence of complications, especially in patients with Marfan syndrome. It entails a relatively low risk, except in the case of thoracoabdominai replacement, and allows satisfactory long-term survival. In our experience, resection of the entry site at initial emergency operation, when it is located on or extends to the transverse arch, reduces the incidence of reoperation. (J Card Surg 1994;9:740–747)     

Impact of turbulent blood flow in the aortic root on de novo aortic insufficiency during continuous-flow left ventricular-assist device support

Severe aortic insufficiency (AI) after implantation of continuous-flow left ventricular-assist device (LVAD) affects device performance and outcomes. However, the mechanism for the occurrence and progression of AI has not been elucidated. We investigated the impact of nonphysiological retrograde blood flow in the aortic root on AI after LVAD implantation. Blood flow pattern was analyzed in patients with and without AI (n = 3 each) who underwent LVAD implantation, by computational fluid dynamics with patient-specific geometries, which were reproduced using electrocardiogram-gated 320-slice computed tomographic images. The total volume of retrograde blood flow during one cardiac cycle (716 ± 88 mL) was higher and the volume of slow blood flow (<0.1 cm/s) (0.16 ± 0.04 cm³) was lower in patients with AI than in those without AI (360 ± 111 mL, P = .0495, and 0.49 ± 0.08 cm³, P = .0495, respectively). No significant difference in wall shear stress on the aortic valve was observed between the groups. Patients with AI had a perpendicular anastomosis at the distal ascending aorta and the simulation in the modified anastomosis model of patients with AI showed that the retrograde blood flow pattern depended on the angle and position of anastomosis. Computational fluid dynamics revealed strong retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta and aortic root in patients with AI after LVAD implantation. The angle and position of LVAD outflow anastomosis might impact retrograde blood flow and de novo AI after LVAD implantation.     

Surgical approach to ascending aorta in bicuspid aortic valve

OBJECTIVE: Former studies have pointed out that hemodynamic stress imposed by associated valvular disease is the primary factor in the development of ascending aorta dilatation. At present, intrinsic wall pathology is blamed for dilatation and aneurysm formation in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aortic valve replacement (AVR) was performed on 78 adult patients with BAV. Patients were divided into two groups. Group I (n = 27) underwent only AVR. Group II (n = 51) underwent AVR and additional ascending aorta procedures such as Shawl-Lapel aortoplasty (n = 12) and tailoring aortoplasty (n = 9). Dacron wrapping was performed after both techniques were done. Ascending aorta replacement was done on 11 patients by using composite graft. Supracoronary graft replacement was performed in 3 patients after AVR. RESULTS: Ascending aorta diameter increment was 1.25 mm/year in normotensive and 2.80 mm/ year in hypertensive patients. Ascending aorta aneurysm (diameter > 55 mm) developed in eight patients in the postoperative period in group I. Ascending aorta dilatation did not develop in group II patients. Mean survival time +/- standard error (SE) was 128 +/- 11 and 99 +/- 4 months and survival possibility was 77.78% and 92.16%. Freedom from reoperation was 65.4% and 95.9% in 8 years in group I and group II, respectively. CONCLUSION: Aortic wrapping with or without aortoplasty has a beneficial effect not only in dilated ascending aorta but also in all nondilated BAV patients with normal-sized aortic diameter. Ascending aorta wrapping in BAV patients preserves the endothelial lining and prevents further dilatation, aneurysm formation, and dissection.     

升主动脉瘤的外科治疗

目的探讨升主动脉瘤治疗经验。方法Marfan’s综合征12例，其中6例合并二尖瓣关闭不全。升主动脉夹层动脉瘤伴主动脉瓣关闭不全6例，升主动脉瘤合并主动脉瓣、二尖瓣关闭不全2例，单纯升主动脉瘤5例，行Bentall手术12例，Cabrol手术3例，Wheat手术5例；单纯升主动脉替换术5例。结果全组无手术死亡。结论Bentall手术是外科治疗升主动脉瘤的主要术式。早期诊断、早期手术是改善升主动脉瘤患者疗效的关键。     

Aneurysmen der Aorta ascendens und des Aortenbogens

Background

The treatment of patients with aneurysms of the ascending aorta and aortic arch often represents a challenge due to their complexity. The clinical picture is characterized by further progression of the disease and severe complications, such as acute aortic dissection or even aortic rupture are not uncommon.

Objectives

This article gives a review of definitions, etiology and indications for operative treatment of patients with aneurysms of the ascending aorta and aortic arch.

Results and discussion

An aortic aneurysm of the ascending aorta is defined as a dilatation of all wall layers of the aorta of more than 50?% in comparison to the normal diameter. This is dependent on age, sex, body surface area and the underlying diseases. In most cases the cause is the presence of atherosclerosis. Connective tissue diseases, bicuspid or monocuspid aortic valves and aortitis represent additional risk factors. Surgical treatment of the ascending aorta, aortic root and aortic arch is carried out in patients without connective tissue diseases and a diameter of ≥?55 mm and for patients with Marfan syndrome and bicuspid aortic valves with a diameter of ≥?50 mm. Earlier indications for surgery are present with an aortic diameter of ≥?45 mm in patients with the following risk factors: familial disposition for aortic dissection (often unrecognized as sudden cardiac death), annual growth rate of the aortic diameter of >?2 mm, comorbid severe aortic valve or mitral valve insufficiency and female patients with a desire to have children. The standard surgical procedures include aortic root replacement, aortic valve reconstruction with aortic root or ascending aorta replacement and partial or total aortic arch replacement depending on the extent of the aneurysm. The so-called hybrid procedures for aortic arch surgery include frozen elephant trunk (ET) techniques and debranching procedures. Good perioperative and postoperative results can be achieved by early diagnostics and an assessment of the indications depending on the individual etiology. Individual and valve-preserving treatment strategies have a favorable influence on the operative outcome.     

Successful valve-sparing in aortic root reconstruction under endoscopic guidance.

OBJECTIVE: Aortic insufficiency (AI) associated with ascending aneurysm can be corrected by valve-sparing aortic root reconstruction ('David' reimplantation, 'Yacoub' remodeling). Intraoperative endoscopic evaluation in the aortic root may help to clarify the procedure and to access competence of the preserved valve. METHODS: Following cross-clamping of the ascending aorta, an endoscopy was inserted into the proximal aortic root. Perfusion of crystalloid cardioplegia enabled the visualization of the pressure-loaded valve in the closed position. Conventional macroscopic evaluation would have overlooked valve prolapse because of a release from perfusion pressure. Valve coaptation was imaged directly before and after the valve-sparing procedure. A total of 17 patients underwent aortic root reconstruction under endoscopic guidance. Indications of the valve-sparing were determined with endoscopic findings. The degree of AI before and after the surgery was evaluated by aortography and scored (0, none; 1 trivial; 2, mild; 3, moderate; 4, severe). RESULTS: Remodeling was employed to eight patients and reimplantation to four. The other five patients were replaced with prosthetic valved-conduit. There was no early and late mortality. Before and after the valve-sparing surgery, grades of AI were significantly reduced. Three patients who underwent reimplantation procedure required late valve replacement for late progression of AI, however, none of the patients with remodeling required reoperation. CONCLUSION: Introduction of an endoscopy successfully reduced postoperative AI and clarified indications and limitations of valve-sparing aortic root operations.     

Should the ascending aorta be replaced more frequently in patients with bicuspid aortic valve disease?

OBJECTIVE: The optimal diameter at which replacement of the ascending aorta should be performed in patients with bicuspid aortic valve disease is not known. METHODS: We reviewed all patients with bicuspid aortic valves undergoing aortic valve replacement at our institution from 1979 through 1993 (n = 201). Patients undergoing concomitant replacement of the ascending aorta were excluded. RESULTS: Follow-up was obtained on 98% of patients and was 10.3 +/- 3.8 (mean +/- SD) years. The average patient age was 56 +/- 15 years, and 76% were male. The ascending aorta was normal (<4.0 cm) in 115 (57%) patients, mildly dilated (4.0-4.4 cm) in 64 (32%) patients, and moderately dilated (4.5-4.9 cm) in 22 (11%) patients. All patients with bicuspid aortic valves with marked dilation (>5.0 cm) underwent replacement of the ascending aorta and were therefore excluded. Fifteen-year survival was 67%. During follow-up, 44 patients required reoperation, predominantly for aortic valve prosthesis failure. Twenty-two patients had long-term complications related to the ascending aorta: 18 required an operative procedure to replace the ascending aorta (for aortic aneurysm), 1 had aortic dissection, and 3 experienced sudden cardiac death. Fifteen-year freedom from ascending aorta-related complications was 86%, 81%, and 43% in patients with an aortic diameter of less than 4.0 cm, 4.0 to 4.4 cm, and 4.5 to 4.9 cm, respectively ( P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Patients undergoing operations for bicuspid aortic valve disease should be considered for concomitant replacement of the ascending aorta if the diameter is 4.5 cm or greater.     

升主动脉置换术或成形术治疗主动脉瓣病变合并的升主动脉瘤样扩张

目的 对比分析主动脉瓣病变合并升主动脉瘤扩张在行主动脉瓣置换术(AVR)的同时施行升主动脉置换术(A组)或成形术(B组)的结果,探讨两种方法的临床效果及适应证.方法 A、B两组术前年龄、性别、心功能分级、主动脉瓣病变、左室射血分数等差异均无统计学意义.A组主动脉直径(49.45±3.96)mm,B组(49.31±3.68)mm,差异亦无统计学意义.行AVR后A组常规置换升主动脉,B组纵行切除部分升主动脉壁,缝合后包裹28～30 mm人工血管.结果 A、B两组术后均无死亡.A组主动脉阻断(71.70±17.13)min、体外循环(110.52±27.51)min,均明显大于B组的(57.13±16.32)min(P=0.025)和(97.31±19.46)min(P=0.004).两组术中及术后输血量、并发症发生率差异无统计学意义.结论 主动脉瓣病变合并升主动脉瘤样扩张,年轻病人主动脉直径≥40 mm时应积极手术处理扩张的升主动脉.升主动脉成形术,同时外包裹人工血管的方法较升主动脉置换术更为简单、安全,但升主动脉壁必须无粥样硬化或溃疡.