External aortic ring annuloplasty as a new component of valve-sparing remodelation in a dystrophic aortic root
Abstract
Attempt to repair the valve in aortic regurgitation and aortic root dystrophy is a current trend of modern cardiac surgery. It requires a technically demanding and complex procedure what, together with uncertain long-term durability of the repair, has precluded widespread employment of these techniques.
Among various historical concepts, two procedures - aortic root remodeling and reimplantation - are the most substantial. Modern insight into hemodynamics and biomechanics of the aortic root complex has supported the more physiological concept of remodelation technique.
A newly introduced external aortic ring valvuloplasty is an appealing adjunct to remodelation which should improve the immediate outcome of surgery and address the known risk of late redilation of the aortic annulus. The authors present evolution of current remodelation strategy together with their own initial surgical experience.