Early and long-term results of reoperative total aortic root replacement with reimplantation of the coronary arteries

BackgroundTotal root replacement with biologic valves and reimplantation of the coronaries gives good early and midterm results. There is continuing concern, however, regarding the risks and long-term results for reoperation after total replacement of the aortic root with reimplantation of the coronaries.MethodsBetween June 1981 and July 2010, a total of 84 patients underwent reoperative aortic root replacement with reimplantation of the coronaries (60 male, mean age 38 ± 15 years). All patients had undergone first-time total aortic root replacement with homografts (82 patients) or autografts (2 patients). Indication for reoperation was structural valve deterioration in 72 patients (85%) and infective endocarditis in 12 patients (15%). Mean interval between first operation and reoperation was 11.1 ± 4.7 years (range, 1 month-24.7 years). Median length of follow-up was 9.7 ± 5.6 years (range, 1 month-24.4 years).ResultsThirty-day mortality was 2.4% (n = 2 patients). Both patients died postoperatively of low-output syndromes with multiorgan failure. At reoperation, 74 patients received homografts (87%), 7 patients underwent a Ross procedure (9%), and 3 received stentless porcine roots (4%). One patient required pacemaker implantation (1%). Actuarial survivals were 89% ± 4% and 81% ± 5% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Nine patients underwent a successful third root replacement during follow-up. Freedom from third-time aortic root operation was 97% ± 3% at 10 years.ConclusionsReoperative aortic root replacement can be performed safely with good short-term and midterm outcomes in a young patient cohort.