Valve-sparing aortic root replacement: a primer for cardiologists

Purpose of review The purpose of this article is to review the contemporary evidence supporting valve-sparing aortic root replacement as the best option for patients with aortic root aneurysms and preservable aortic valves as well as to review the technical variations and modern adjuncts of these operations that impact both short and long-term durability. Recent findings In patients with an aortic root aneurysm, with or without aortic valve regurgitation, valve-sparing aortic root replacement provide excellent clinical outcomes and stable valve function over several decades. Successful execution of this operation depends on careful patient selection and a thorough understanding of the anatomical and physiological relationships between the various components of the aortic root. Echocardiography remains the mainstay of imaging to determine the feasibility of valve-sparing root replacement. Summary Valve-sparing aortic root replacement is an excellent alternative to composite valve graft replacement in nonelderly patients with aortic root aneurysms. Dedicated aortic root surgeons perform several technical variations of valve-sparing procedures aimed at matching the specific aortic root disorder with the optimal operation.

Automated summary

This article reviews the contemporary evidence supporting valve-sparing aortic root replacement as the best option for patients with aortic root aneurysms and preservable aortic valves. It also discusses the technical variations and modern adjuncts of these operations that impact both short and long-term durability. The findings suggest that valve-sparing aortic root replacement provides excellent clinical outcomes and stable valve function for patients with aortic root aneurysms. Careful patient selection and understanding of the anatomical and physiological relationships are crucial for the success of this operation. Echocardiography plays a key role in determining the feasibility of valve-sparing root replacement.