Aortic valve repair and valve sparing procedures

Aortic valve repair and valve sparing procedures enable restoration of competence in regurgitant aortic valve, and thus to avoid the risks related to valve replacement. Successful aortic valve repair requires deep understanding of the static and dynamic geometry of the aortic valve and aortic root. Aortic regurgitation originates from malapposition of the aortic leaflets and it is also frequently connected to dilation of the aortic root and ascending aorta. Techniques of surgical procedures for aortic regurgitation have been subject of historical development and currently tend to simplification and standardisation. Basic principles stand upon morphological normalisation at the level of the basal ring, sinotubular junction and valve leaflets. Remodelation of the aortic root and reimplantation of the aortic valve keep to be standard procedures in case of a dystrophic dilation of the aortic root.