Overview and Facts about Aortic Valve-sparing Root Replacement
Aortic valve-sparing root replacement is a procedure in which the root of the aorta is replaced with a graft while the aortic valve is preserved. The aortic valve regulates the flow of blood from the heart’s left ventricle to the aorta, which is the major artery that supplies the body with oxygenated blood.
The valve opens and closes in time with the pumping of the heart. This valve helps maintain the appropriate output of blood and prevent the backflow of blood into the ventricle. Valve-sparing root replacement is a treatment option used in cases of aortic disease in which the function of the valve has not been impaired.
The procedure is most often indicated in cases of aortic root aneurysm - a condition in which the artery is enlarged at the site of the root. An enlarged aortic root may result in the inability of the aortic valve to fully close, causing blood to leak back into the left ventricle.
In valve-sparing root replacement, the enlarged portion of the artery is removed and replaced with a graft, allowing the valve to resume its normal function. It has been shown to reduce the risk of endocarditis and stroke and also provides successful treatment of connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome.
What to Expect during Aortic Valve-sparing Root Replacement
Aortic valve-sparing root replacement is performed in a hospital by a cardiac surgeon with extensive education and experience in the procedure. You will be placed under general anesthesia and remain sedated during surgery.
The surgeon performs the procedure through an incision in your chest. You will be placed on cardiopulmonary bypass, a machine that performs the function of the heart and lungs, while your heart is being operated on. The aorta is clamped while the surgeon removes the damaged portion of the aortic root.
The valve tissue is either left intact or removed and surgically transplanted into the graft, which is then stitched in place. You will be monitored closely following surgery.
Most patients who undergo heart surgery remain in the intensive care unit for one to three days and a week total in the hospital following the procedure. Prior to discharge, your care team will go over instructions on how to care for your incision, prescription medication instructions, activity restrictions and cardiac rehabilitation guidelines.
What are the Side Effects of Aortic Valve-sparing Root Replacement?
Certain side effects are common with any open heart surgical procedure and typically resolve within four to six weeks.
Your doctor may prescribe medication or other treatments to minimize your discomfort. This includes:
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Clicking noise or sensation in your chest
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Constipation
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Loss of appetite
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Muscle pain in your shoulders or upper back
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Pain at the incision site
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Trouble sleeping
What are the Risks of Aortic Valve-sparing Root Replacement?
Although uncommon, serious complications can occur following aortic surgery. Potential risks include:
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Abnormal heart rhythm
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Heart attack
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Impaired blood clotting and bleeding
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Infection
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Respiratory failure
