Early results with the Carbo-seal (R) composite valve conduit for aortic root replacement

Background and aims of the study: Composite graft replacement of the aortic root is still a complex operation, transgraft hemorrhage being one of the most severe complications. The aim of the study was to evaluate early resul ts with the Carbo-seal(R) composite conduit for aortic root replacement. Methods: A retrospective review of 21 patients operated on for ascending ao rtic aneurysm and/or dissection with the open technique between August 1993 and February 1998 is presented; 12 patients had Marfan syndrome and nine w ere non-Marfan. Results: There were two operative deaths (9.5%) due to low cardiac output. Two patients were re-explored for bleeding which was not due to transgraft hemorrhage. Postoperative complications were one hemothorax, one pneumothor ax and two pericardial effusions. During the follow up, one patient died of rupture of a descending aortic aneurysm, and one patient in atrial fibrill ation had a transient ischemic attack. At the closing of the follow up, the remaining patients were well and free of complications. Conclusions: Carbo-seal may be considered a reliable device for use in aort ic root replacement, though a longer follow up and a larger patient populat ion are necessary to confirm these positive early results.