Valve sparing root replacement: an update

Abstract

Purpose of review: Until the year 2000, the publications concerning aortic valve sparing (AVS) did not exceed 20 articles; in the following years almost 300 publications have appeared. Over 35 years from the introduction of valve sparing techniques and 500 years after the death of Leonardo da Vinci, this review highlights the significant steps in modern imaging techniques and the excellent clinical results in the field of reconstructive aortic root surgery.

Recent findings: AVS operations underwent significant modifications over the last few years making it reproducible with satisfactory outcomes. The extraordinary potential of imaging opens new boundless horizons in the perspective of an increasingly patient-tailored surgical planning. The basic surgical concepts include the preservation and resuspension of the aortic valve in a near-normal environment (with the creation of functionally suited neo-aortic sinuses) and the re-establishment of a normal relationship of the aortic root components.

Summary: Today is possible to perform a reimplantation procedure with the creation of neo-sinuses or a remodeling procedure with the addition of annular support. Both procedures can now guarantee an anatomical root reconstruction and an increased long-term durability. AVS operations have become established alternatives to Bentall procedures for patients with aortic root pathology, especially in young patients.