Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Repair With Patch Technique

Surgical management of the aortic root in acute type A aortic dissection: A comparative analysis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the early- and mid-term outcomes of aortic root repair and replacement, and to provide evidence to improve root management in acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD).

METHODS

This study enrolled 455 patients who underwent AAAD root repair (n = 307) or replacement (n = 148) between January 2016 and December 2017. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) method was used to control for treatment selection bias. The primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality, mid-term survival, and proximal aortic reintervention.

RESULTS

The success rate of root repair was 99.7%. The in-hospital mortality in the conservative root repair (CRR) and aggressive root replacement (ARR) were 8.1% and 10.8%. The median follow-up time was 67.76 months (IQR, 67-72 months). After adjusting for baseline factors, there was no significant differences in mid-term survival (p = .750) or the proximal aortic reintervention rate (p = .550) between the two groups. According to Cox analysis, age, hypertension, severe aortic regurgitation, CPB time, and concomitant CABG were all factors associated with mid-term mortality. Regarding reintervention, multivariate analysis identified renal insufficiency, bicuspid aortic valve, root diameter ≥ 45 mm, and severe aortic regurgitation as risk factors, while CRR did not increase the risk of reintervention. The subgroup analysis revealed heterogeneity in the effects of surgical treatment across diverse populations based on a variety of risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with AAAD, both CRR and ARR are appropriate operations with promising early and mid-term outcomes. The effects of treatment show heterogeneity across diverse populations based on various risk factors.

Selective sinus replacement for aortic root repair in bicuspid aortopathy

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the results after selective sinus replacement (SSR) for aortic root remodeling in bicuspid aortopathy.

METHODS

Among 662 patients who underwent root repair using SSR between 2005 and 2020, there were 114 with bicuspid aortopathy. SSR was performed either as an isolated procedure (31) or as an adjunct to aortic valve repair (83) and was adjusted to the existing aortic annulus diameter rather than a downsized diameter. In valves with asymmetrical commissural orientation, the repair aimed for the achievement of a 180°-commissural orientation.

RESULTS

Abolishment of aortic insufficiency (AI) ≥2+ using root repair alone was only possible in 2 patients with acute-dissection-related AI, yet isolated root repair was also performed in 29 further patients with no/mild AI. All remaining patients with AI ≥2+ presented cusp-related regurgitation and necessitated an additional valve repair. During the mean follow-up of 91 months (range, 13-196), a relevant valve defect (AI ≥3+ in 8, stenosis in 2) occurred in 10 patients (all after combined repair) resulting in an estimated freedom from a relevant aortic valve defect and/or reoperation of 96 ± 2%, 89 ± 4%, and 82 ± 6% at 5, 10, and 12 years, respectively. Echocardiographically, no patient revealed a considerable change of form or size of the repaired root nor was any root reintervention necessary.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-tailored root repair using SSR is a very effective and durable valve-sparing approach for bicuspid aortopathy. Aortic cusp repair is decisive for both abolishment of AI in bicuspid aortopathy and for the functional durability of the repaired aortic valve.

Mid-term outcomes of total neointima implantation in surgical repair of acute type A aortic dissection

Total neointima implantation (patch neointima technique + triple-branched stent graft placement) has been performed in proximal aortic repair for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) for more than 10 years at a center. However, there is no report on the mid-term outcomes with a control group of the surgical procedure. Consequently, the authors aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique in this study. Patients who underwent the total neointima implantation were classified as Group A, and those who underwent the conventional aortic root reconstruction with the "sandwich" technique and the total aortic arch replacement were classified as Group B. Furthermore, the authors described the preoperative characteristics, operative data, and patient outcomes. Group A patients experienced a shorter surgery duration, lower volumes of perioperative bleeding, and fewer red blood cell transfusions. The incidence of neurological complications was significantly reduced in Group A. All patients maintained a normal range of proximal aortic sizes after surgery. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no significant differences between the patients in the two groups regarding cumulative mortality and the incidence of moderate-to-severe aortic insufficiency. In well-selected patients, total neointima implantation is an alternative procedure for the surgical repair of ATAAD.

Current controversies in aortic valve-preserving surgery

The clinical outcome of severe aortic regurgitation (AR) remains suboptimal, but surgery has been shown to have survival benefit over medical therapy. Postoperative survival is inferior in patients with reduced left ventricular function, and therefore early surgical intervention is recommended. Aortic valvuloplasty (AVP) is an attractive option to avoid the major drawbacks of prosthetic valves but has not been widely adopted. The etiology of AR is classified functionally into three groups: normal leaflet motion (type I), cusp prolapse (type II), and restriction (type III). Type I with dilatation of the sinus of Valsalva (type Ib) can be repaired by aortic valve reimplantation or aortic root remodeling with similar valve stability. Type I with dilatation of the aortic annulus (type Ic) can be managed by annuloplasty. Type II can be corrected by plication or resuspension techniques. Pericardial patch is necessary in AVP for type Id (perforation/fenestration) and type III but is associated with risk of recurrence. Bicuspid aortic valve is classified according to commissure angle: symmetrical, asymmetrical, and very asymmetrical. Tricuspidization is recommended for repair of very asymmetrical valves to avoid postoperative stenosis. Recent progress has achieved similar reoperation rates between bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valve repair. For Marfan syndrome, valve-sparing root replacement is advantageous compared to Bentall operation regarding late survival, thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events, and endocarditis. Similar findings have been reported in acute aortic dissection. Both remodeling and reimplantation procedures provide similar favorable outcomes in these settings. Recent advances in AVP are summarized by quantitative assessment of cusp configuration (effective height and geometric height), graft size decision, use of template to cut the graft, and videoscopic assessment of post-repair cusp configuration. Due to these advances, AVP shows superior results to replacement surgery. Further concrete evidence with larger case volumes and longer observation periods are necessary to popularize AVP.

Long-term outcomes after aortic root repair using selective sinus replacement

OBJECTIVES

The study aim was to evaluate long-term results after anatomic restoration of the aortic root.

METHODS

During an 18-year period, a total of 669 patients underwent valve-sparing root repair (aneurysm 554, dissection 115) using selective sinus replacement. None/trivial, mild, moderate, and severe (grades 3+ and 4+) insufficiency were present in 57, 146, 204, and 262 patients, respectively.

RESULTS

The anatomic repair was adjusted to the existing aortic annulus diameter, which was 27.0 ± 3.0 mm on average. Replacement of 1, 2, or 3 sinuses of Valsalva was performed in 209, 234, and 226 patients, respectively. Altogether, 454 additional procedures on the cusps were performed, mostly as cusp patch plasty with pericardium (210). Thirty-day mortality was 0.6%. The mean follow-up duration was 7.1 ± 4.1 years (range, 0.01-19.1 years). The estimated freedom from relevant aortic insufficiency grade 3+ or greater (15 events) was 98% ± 1%, 97% ± 1%, and 94% ± 3% at 5, 10, and 15 years, respectively. On echocardiogram, no patient revealed a considerable change of the form or size of the repaired root, which was confirmed radiologically in 160 patients who received computed tomography angiography for any reason. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified cusp prolapse/pseudo-prolapse as the only independent risk factor for the development of recurrent insufficiency grade 2+ or greater (41 occurrences), with a hazard ratio of 3.258 (95% confidence interval, 1.658-6.403; P = .001). An association between aortic annulus size and functional results could not be demonstrated.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-tailored root repair using isolated sinus replacement offers excellent functional long-term results regardless of underlying root pathology or annulus size. Aortic cusp pathology was decisive for long-term valve function.

A new patch technique for valve-sparing aortic root repair in acute type A aortic dissection

Valve-sparing aortic root replacement is an attractive option for younger patients with acute type A aortic dissection. This study aimed to design a new patch technique for reconstructing the aortic root and preserving the aortic valve following aortic dissection. Between July 2017 and December 2018, 35 patients underwent valve-sparing aortic root repair using this new patch technique. All participants were in the supine position, transesophageal echocardiography and median sternotomy were routinely performed. After thrombi at the aortic root were removed in acute type A dissection, the luminal aortic intimal dissection was removed until the aortic condition was normalized. In each aortic sinus involved in the dissection, a Dacron-graft patch with the shape corresponding to the defect was sutured to the normal remnant vascular wall or aortic annulus in the aortic sinus using 5-0 Prolene suture to reconstruct the aortic root. A total of 2 patients died, and 1 cerebral infarction, and 3 cases of transient brain dysfunction were recorded. The sinus tube junction and sinus diameter were within the normal ranges when they were reexamined 3 months after surgery. This new patch technique circumvents the redesign of the spatial 3D structure of the aortic valve, is simple to operate, and easy to master. It completely removes the diseased dissection tissue, avoids the use of glue, and is an alternative surgical technique, especially for beginners.

Patch Neointima Technique in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: Midterm Results of 147 Cases

BACKGROUND

The patch neointima technique is a modified valve-sparing aortic root repair surgery for acute type A aortic dissection and the short-term outcomes are satisfactory. The midterm outcomes have not been reported.

METHODS

From January 2009 to December 2012, 147 patients underwent valve-sparing aortic root repair with the patch neointima technique for type A aortic dissection in our center. The midterm outcomes of the patients were evaluated by echocardiography and aortic computed tomography angiography.

RESULTS

Of 147 patients, 32 patients (21.8%) underwent proximal arch repair, and 115 patients (78.2%) underwent proximal arch repair combined with triple-branched stent graft implantation. The perioperative mortality was 5.4%. Preoperative aortic insufficiency (AI) was observed in 94 patients (63.9%); 131 patients (89.1%) left the operating room with 0 AI; the remaining 16 patients (10.9%) had trace or less than 1+ AI. A total of 128 patients (87.1%) completed 7-year follow-up. The mean follow-up time was 5.7 ± 1.2 years. As many as 82% of patients (105) were 0 AI and 15.6% of patients (20) were 0.5+ trace or less than 1+ AI. No reoperation was performed for the aortic root. The diameters of sinotubular junction and sinus were reduced to the normal range (28.3 ± 4.2 mm and 30.5 ± 3.6 mm, respectively) and remained stable (28.9 ± 5.6 mm, P = .300, and 30.8 ± 4.2 mm, P = .540, respectively) during 7 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Valve-sparing aortic root repair with patch neointima technique was associated with stable function of the aortic valves and no expansion of the aortic root in the midterm.

Valve-sparing partial root repair for aortic dissection limited to the right coronary sinus of Valsalva

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY

To reveal a technical feasibility and safety of valve-sparing partial aortic root repair for spontaneous aortic dissection limited to the right coronary sinus of Valsalva.

METHODS

A 68-year-old woman presented with chest pain. Twelve-lead electrocardiogram revealed atrioventricular dissociation and ST-segment elevation on II, III, and aVF. Enhanced computed tomography images showed aortic dissection limited to the right-coronary sinus and the other non-dilated sinuses of Valsalva. Localized aortic dissection was repaired by valve-sparing partial aortic root repair using a trimmed U-shaped Dacron graft and a felt strip, and the right coronary artery was revascularized by coronary artery bypass grafting using saphenous vein graft.

RESULTS

The patient was discharged on postoperative day 12 with no complications.

CONCLUSION

Valve-sparing partial aortic root repair with the patch and coronary artery bypass grafting for aortic dissection limited to the right coronary sinus of Valsalva were technically feasible and safe.

Early results of modified aortic-valve sparing partial root replacement in acute type A aortic dissection with an intimal tear in the aortic sinuses

We describe a modified aortic valve-sparing partial root replacement (AVSPRR) technique for acute type A aortic dissection with an intimal tear (IT) in the aortic sinus. This procedure consists of selective replacement of the sinus containing an IT with a rectangular patch. If an IT exists in any coronary sinus, the coronary button was reimplanted to the neo-sinus and an external wrapping of the noncoronary sinus was added. Modified AVSPRR may be considered a feasible short-term outcome, and may be considered as an option in selected patients.

Identification and surgical repair of familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection caused by TGFBR1 mutation

BACKGROUND

This study aimed at exploring the causative gene and summarizing the clinical characteristics in a Chinese thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) family.

METHODS

Family members were examined for features of syndromic genetic diseases by clinician and geneticist. Genomic DNA was extracted from 2 distantly related members with definite TAAD for exome sequencing.

RESULTS

A pathogenic mutation (rs111426349, c.1459C >T) of transforming growth factor β receptor 1 (TGFBR1) was confirmed, which result in the amino acid substitution p.R487W. Fourteen TGFBR1 mutation carriers were detected among 39 tested members in this family. The average age at diagnosis of aortic root dilatation or aneurysm was 23.2 ± 12.6 years (range 3-37 years). Early onset of aortic root dilatation was significant in this family without reported phenotypes. The David procedure was performed prophylactically in 3 carriers of this family.

CONCLUSIONS

Familial TAAD caused by TGFBR1 mutation (c.1459C >T) was confirmed in a large Chinese Han ethnic family using exome sequencing. Aggressively prophylactic David procedure may be not necessary at a smaller aortic size in familial TAAD patients with TGFBR1 mutation and further observation is warranted.

A modified root reinforcement technique for acute aortic dissection with a weakened aortic root: a modified Florida sleeve technique and two cases report

Despite marvelous advances in repair for acute type A aortic dissection over past decades, it remains challenging to repair the aortic root when aortic dissection extended to the sinuses causes the fragile root because of its thinner layers, which are susceptible to suture trauma. Here, we describe a modified Florida sleeve technique to strengthen the weakened aortic root. After mobilization of the aortic root and the coronary arteries, a designed Dacron tube graft was wrapped outside the sinuses as neo-adventitia to reinforce the dissected weakened wall. During surgery for aortic dissection, our technique is easy and effective to reinforce a weakened root and avoid bleeding. Furthermore, this might be an alternative technique to restore and maintain the geometry of the aortic root.

Valve-sparing root replacement with root reduction plasty and patch neointima placement

We describe an alternative valve-sparing aortic root replacement technique for patients with root aneurysms accompanied by aortic valve insufficiency. Aortic root reduction plasty was accomplished by plication and exclusion of parts of the sinus walls. Subsequently, 3 teardrop-shaped patches compatible with the sizes and shapes of the corresponding plicated sinuses were sutured inside the sinuses as neointima, and in situ coronary buttons were connected to the small holes created in the corresponding patches. A Dacron tube graft was then anastomosed to the reconstructed aortic root with incorporation of the distal margin of the implanted patches. Our initial application showed that this combined root reduction plasty and patch neointima placement is a feasible valve-sparing aortic root replacement technique. This combined technique easily restores the aortic root geometry and effectively prevents bleeding.

Novel technique of valve-sparing aortic root replacement in two children younger than 3 years of age

A novel technique of valve-sparing aortic root replacement was applied to 2 children younger than 3 years of age with Marfan syndrome and large aortic root aneurysms. Using elements of both the remodeling and reimplantation techniques, circumferential rings from a 20-mm to 22-mm polyester graft provide stabilization at the subannular and sinotubular levels, and bovine pericardial patches create pseudosinuses. Follow-up at 2 years in 1 patient and 7 months in a second patient revealed satisfactory valve function with stable aortic root size.

A modified valve-sparing aortic root replacement technique for acute type A aortic dissection: the patch neointima technique

We describe a modified valve-sparing aortic root replacement technique for acute type A aortic dissection. After the normal root geometry was restored by removing blood and clots in the proximal false lumen and the valve insufficiency was corrected by simple resuspension of the aortic commissures, three teardrop-shaped patches were sutured inside the sinuses as neointima and then in situ coronary buttons were connected to the small holes created in the corresponding patches. Our initial application showed that this modified valve-sparing aortic root replacement technique is an easy and effective way to restore the geometry of the aortic root and avoid bleeding during surgery for acute type A dissection.

New vascular graft for simplification of the aortic valve reimplantation technique

Achievement of optimal valve geometry in valve-sparing aortic root repairs is a prerequisite for favorable valve function and, therefore, the simplification of these procedures is of utmost importance. The aim of the study was to determine the feasibility of the new vascular graft for aortic valve reimplantation technique and evaluate the early and intermediate functional results. Five patients with different aortic root and valve pathologies (1 acute aortic dissection, 4 chronic aneurysms, and 1 bicuspid valve) of whom two patients suffered from severe (4+) aortic regurgitation, underwent valve-sparing aortic root repair using the reimplantation technique with the new graft. Three patients required, in addition to the aortic root repair, other procedures on the valve cusps. In all patients, optimal root restoration with no or slight valve insufficiency could be achieved, and these results remained unchanged over the follow-up time of up to two years. The new aortic root graft simplifies aortic root repair using the valve reimplantation technique, and despite its straight form, allows easy restoration of the aortic root, which fits perfectly with patients' anatomy.