A refined flanged Bentall technique using Valsalva tube graft for proximal reinforcement

Abstract

Bleeding from the proximal suture line during aortic root replacement using a composite valve graft is a crucial and catastrophic problem. We present a simple flanged Bentall technique using a Valsalva tube graft to eliminate bleeding from the proximal suture line. The method is to wrap the proximal anastomosis completely by sewing the Valsalva flange to the residual aortic wall. The wrapping is facilitated by the use of part of a horizontally stretching Valsalva graft. This refined technique is effective and reproducible to prevent bleeding from the proximal suture line after the Bentall procedure.