Risk of Aortic Dissection in Patients with Bicuspid Aortic Valves

Abstract

I was pleased to read the report by McKellar et al 1 McKellar S.H. Michelena H.I. Li Z. Schaff H.V. Sunft III, T.M. Long-term risk of aortic events following aortic valve replacement in patients with bicuspid aortic valves. Am J Cardiol. 2010; 106: 1626-1633 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (97) Google Scholar that in patients with bicuspid aortic valves, the occurrence of aortic dissection was low after aortic valve replacement, and aortic dilatation did not predict mortality. The investigators concluded that there was “scant evidence for prophylactic replacement of the ascending aorta” at the time of aortic valve replacement. Long-Term Risk of Aortic Events Following Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Bicuspid Aortic ValvesAmerican Journal of CardiologyVol. 106Issue 11PreviewBicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is associated with ascending aortopathy predisposing to aneurysmal dilatation and dissection, even after successful aortic valve replacement (AVR). There is, however, scant evidence on which to make recommendations for prophylactic replacement of the ascending aorta at the time of AVR. The medical records of patients who underwent AVR for BAV without aortic replacement or repair from 1960 to 1995 were reviewed. Follow-up was by review of the medical record and postal questionnaire. Full-Text PDF