Overview and Facts about Aortic Homograft Root Replacement
Aortic homograft root replacement is a type of heart surgery in which the root of the aorta is removed and replaced with a human tissue graft from a donated heart. The aortic root is the portion of the aorta containing the aortic valve, connecting the aorta to the left ventricle of the heart. Blood is pumped from the ventricle through the valve and up the root to be distributed throughout the body by way of the body’s largest artery.
“Homograft” refers to the use of an aortic root from the heart of a deceased organ donor in the replacement procedure. Homograft replacement is performed primarily in cases of aortic endocarditis, or infection of the heart’s inner lining.
Replacing the root with human tissue rather than a synthetic graft lowers the risk of reinfection and may promote better blood circulation and function of the valve. Homograft replacement also prevents the long-term use of blood thinners following surgery.
Unfortunately, at this time aortic homograft root replacement is much less common than synthetic replacement due to the lack of available tissue and the complexity of the procedure.
What to Expect during Aortic Homograft Root Replacement
Aortic homograft root replacement is performed by a cardiac surgeon who is highly educated and trained in the procedure. General anesthesia will be given to keep you alseep during the surgery.
You will be placed on a cardiopulmonary bypass machine that performs the job of your heart and lungs by supplying your body with oxygenated blood during surgery. Through an incision made in your chest, the diseased section of your aorta will be surgically removed and replaced with the donor root and valve stitched in place between your aorta and left ventricle.
After surgery, you will be brought to the intensive care unit where you will receive constant care as you begin your recovery, and you will remain in the hospital for around a week. During this time, your heartbeat, blood pressure and blood flow will be monitored by your care team. Drainage tubes may remain placed in your chest for several days following surgery to collect any fluid surrounding the surgical site.
Once your doctor has determined you are ready to be discharged, you will receive detailed guidelines on recovery at home and cardiac rehabilitation, including caring for your incision and activities to avoid. A multidisciplinary team will be assembled to aid you in your long-term recovery through diet, activity, lifestyle changes and psychological care.
What are the Side Effects of Aortic Homograft Root Replacement?
Side effects of cardiac/aortic surgery are to be expected, and it may take up to six weeks before you begin to feel better.
Your doctor can prescribe treatment to help manage or minimize any discomfort in your experience. Side effects include:
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Appetite loss or food aversion
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Constipation
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Incision site pain, redness and swelling
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Mood swings
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Trouble sleeping
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Upper back or shoulder pain or tightness
What are the Risks of a Aortic Homograft Root Replacement?
The likelihood of developing complications associated with aortic homograft root replacement depends on your unique medical history, overall health, coexisting diseases, and age. Potential risks include:
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Abnormal heartbeat
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Bleeding
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Blood clots
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Homograft root failure
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Infection
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Stroke
