SINUS OF VALSALVA REPAIR FOR ANNULOAORTIC ECTASIA AND AORTIC-INSUFFICIENCY

OBJECTIVE: The standard treatment of ascending aortic aneurysms (AsAAs ) with annulo-aortic ectasia and aortic insufficiency has been composi te graft replacement of the valve and ascending aorta. The authors pro pose a method of repair which preserves the native aortic valve and co rrects the aneurysmal dilation of the sinus of Valsalva yet preserves its normal shape. PATIENTS/INTERVENTIONS: Two patients with large AsAA s and severe aortic insufficiency had operative repair by plication of the sinuses of Valsalva which maintained the normal sinus shape and r estored coaptation of the aortic leaflets.MAIN RESULTS: Late postopera tive echocardiography revealed only mild aortic insufficiency in both patients and no evidence of further sinus dilation. CONCLUSIONS: Repai r of the sinus of Valsalva preserves the aortic valve and native coron ary ostia, can correct existing aortic insufficiency and can provide a good functional result without the need for anticoagulation.