Valve-sparing aortic root replacement with repair of leaflet prolapse after Ross operation

Abstract

The need for reoperation remains a principal limitation of the Ross procedure and most commonly includes replacement of the neo-aortic valve. Valve-preserving aortic root replacement has recently evolved into an increasingly accepted treatment modality for patients with neo-aortic valve regurgitation. Leaflet prolapse, however, may be present, making composite replacement the most frequent choice. Alternatively, valve preservation may be combined with correction of leaflet prolapse. We describe the use of a valve-sparing procedure with correction of leaflet prolapse in a patient with progressive dilatation of the pulmonary autograft and severe regurgitation of the neoaortic valve. © 2007 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.