Sinus of Valsalva repair for annulo-aortic ectasia and aortic insufficiency.

OBJECTIVE

The standard treatment of ascending aortic aneurysms (AsAAs) with annulo-aortic ectasia and aortic insufficiency has been composite graft replacement of the valve and ascending aorta. The authors propose a method of repair which preserves the native aortic valve and correct the aneurysmal dilation of the sinus of Valsalva yet preserves its normal shape.

PATIENTS/INTERVENTIONS: Two patients with large AsAAs and severe aortic insufficiency had operative repair by plication of the sinuses of Valsalva which maintained the normal sinus shape and restored coaptation of the aortic leaflets.

MAIN RESULTS

Late postoperative echocardiography revealed only mild aortic insufficiency in both patients and no evidence of further sinus dilation.

CONCLUSIONS

Repair of the sinus of Valsalva preserves the aortic valve and native coronary ostia, can correct existing aortic insufficiency and can provide a good functional result without the need for anticoagulation.