Autograft Stabilization for the Ross Procedure in Children

Abstract

Aortic valve disease in children presents a considerable surgical challenge. When repair is not feasible, the Ross procedure represents the best option for replacement as it allows growth and does not require anticoagulation. However, there is a risk of progressive autograft dilatation, and eventual failure of the autograft with severe regurgitation. Autograft stabilization has proven beneficial in adults but has not been widely adopted in children undergoing the Ross procedure. We present a series of techniques for autograft stabilization which can be used at different stages of development, from infants to fully grown adolescents. Aortic valve disease in children presents a considerable surgical challenge. When repair is not feasible, the Ross procedure represents the best option for replacement as it allows growth and does not require anticoagulation. However, there is a risk of progressive autograft dilatation, and eventual failure of the autograft with severe regurgitation. Autograft stabilization has proven beneficial in adults but has not been widely adopted in children undergoing the Ross procedure. We present a series of techniques for autograft stabilization which can be used at different stages of development, from infants to fully grown adolescents.