A New Technique for Shaping the Aortic Sinuses and Conserving Dynamism in the Remodeling Operation

Background: Preserving dynamism and recreating the sinuses in the Dacron graft are thought to be important for optimizing results of aortic valve-conserving operations.

Methods: We describe a novel technique that preserves dynamism and recreates the sinotubular junction. In addition, it tailors 3 sinuses of defined longitudinal and transverse curvatures in a straight Dacron tube during the operation. The technique has been used in 6 patients with varied aortic root pathology. We performed preoperative and postoperative multimodality imaging using computerized image analysis as well as 3-dimensional models.

Results: There was no early or midterm death. Upon discharge, patients were clinically well, with echocardiographic evidence of minimal (3 patients) or mild (3 patients) aortic regurgitation. Computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging with extensive image analysis of the aortic root size, shape, and function showed partial or complete normalization of these parameters. This included the shape and dynamism of the aortic annulus and the size and shape of the geometric (effective) orifice. The 4-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging pattern of flow in the sinuses and ascending aorta showed favorable vortices in the sinuses, right-handed helical flow, and marked diminution of energy loss in the ascending aorta.

Conclusions: The novel technique described here is simple, practical, and cost-effective because it uses a widely available straight Dacron tube. The technique does not use rigid internal or external support. The early results are encouraging. Larger series with longer follow-up are required.