The wide spectrum of aortic root dilatation after the Ross operation

Abstract

[first paragraph of article]

The Ross root replacement is the only technique that guarantees long-term viability of all the component parts of the root. The normal aortic root performs extremely sophisticated functions which are closely linked to its structure, dynamics and viability. This has been shown to translate into clinically-relevant endpoints, such as survival and quality of life. The insertion of the pulmonary autograft as a freestanding root guarantees optimal relationship between the component parts with no distortion. Although the pulmonary valve is known to adapt to the new environment, there is continuing concern about the risk of long-term autograft dilatation and aortic regurgitation.5 We here describe two patients with considerably different types of changes in shape and size of the aortic root, in comparison to two age- and gender-matched controls.