Valve In Adult Research Articles

Bicuspid Aortic Valve in Children and Young Adults for Cardiologists and Cardiac Surgeons: State-of-the-Art of Literature Review.

Bicuspid aortic valve disease is the most prevalent congenital heart disease, affecting up to 2% of the general population. The presentation of symptoms may vary based on the patient's anatomy of fusion, with transthoracic echocardiography being the primary diagnostic tool. Bicuspid aortic valves may also appear with concomitant aortopathy, featuring fundamental structural changes which can lead to valve dysfunction and/or aortic dilatation over time. This article seeks to give a comprehensive overview of the presentation, treatment possibilities and long-term effects of this condition. The databases MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched using the terms "endocarditis" or "bicuspid aortic valve" in combination with "epidemiology", "pathogenesis", "manifestations", "imaging", "treatment", or "surgery" to retrieve relevant articles. We have identified two types of bicuspid aortic valve disease: aortic stenosis and aortic regurgitation. Valve replacement or repair is often necessary. Patients need to be informed about the benefits and drawbacks of different valve substitutes, particularly with regard to life-long anticoagulation and female patients of childbearing age. Depending on the expertise of the surgeon and institution, the Ross procedure may be a viable alternative. Management of these patients should take into account the likelihood of somatic growth, risk of re-intervention, and anticoagulation risks that are specific to the patient, alongside the expertise of the surgeon or centre. Further research is required on the secondary prevention of patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), such as lifestyle advice and antibiotics to prevent infections, as the guidelines are unclear and lack strong evidence.

Congenital unicuspid aortic valve in adults: Minireview and case series

ABSTRACT A unicuspid aortic valve (UAV) in adults is a very rare form of aortic valve (AV) malformation. UAV has two distinct subtypes, acommissural UAV and unicommissural, and can be differentiated by anatomical features, imaging modalities, and clinical presentation. With the development of significant AV lesion (s), surgical or transcatheter intervention will be required. The first part is a summarized review of UAV (anatomical features, clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, and management). In the second part, we present a series of four patients diagnosed with UAV (3 unicommissural and 1 acommissural). The first case underwent balloon aortic valvuloplasty during childhood and surgical AV replacement later, with the progression to severe aortic stenosis (AS). The second case underwent a Ross procedure. The third and fourth cases were asymptomatic with moderate AS and mild-to-moderate AR and were kept on follow-up. In all the cases, transesophageal echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis of UAV with detailed morphological and functional assessment of AV.

Left Anterior Minithoracotomy for Pulmonary Valve Replacement in Adults.

Surgical interventions on the pulmonary valve in adults have been increasing over the years, as patients with congenital heart diseases are experiencing extended lifespans. Reoperations involving multiple sternotomies exhibit elevated morbidity and mortality rates. With nearly two decades of experience in minimally invasive video-assisted mitral valve surgery, we have chosen the left anterior minithoracotomy approach for addressing the pulmonary valve and right ventricular outflow tract in adult patients. The technique demonstrates safety based on initial outcomes, minimizing potential complications from multiple cardiac reapproaches. Our series of five patients demonstrated an absence of postoperative complications or mortality.

Ross versus Repair for Treatment of the Unicuspid Aortic Valve in Adults.

Aortic stenosis or regurgitation in patients with a unicuspid valve morphology require interventions early in life. We have performed either primary valve repair or the Ross procedure. The aim of this study was to compare the mid-term results of repair and pulmonary autograft replacement. Between 12/1998 and 04/2022, 345 patients (77% male; mean age 34±9.7 years) underwent treatment of a unicuspid aortic valve. Patients were excluded if they were <18 years (n = 84) or > 54 years (n = 3) at the time of the operation. The remaining cohort was divided into 2 groups: 167 (64%) patients underwent valve repair, 91 (36%) patients underwent pulmonary autograft replacement.The indications for surgery were aortic regurgitation (n = 104), aortic stenosis (n = 45), combined disease (n = 103), and endocarditis (n = 6). Fifty-one patients had root dilatation (>43mm) with aortic regurgitation (repair n = 23; Ross n = 28). Mean follow-up was 5.9 (SD: 5 years) [range 0.1 to 22.3 years]. There was 1 early, 3 late deaths, and 47 patients required reintervention. Survival at 10 years was 95% in the Ross group and 97% after valve repair (p = 0.769). Freedom from reintervention at 10 years was 98% in the Ross group and 80% after valve repair (p = 0.012). A ROC curve analysis showed a trend towards better durability in patients < 26 years. The ideal treatment of the unicuspid aortic valve remains debatable. Repair of a unicuspid valve can be considered a bridge to pulmonary autograft replacement, at least in younger patients. The appropriate time when to replace and when to repair requires further investigation.

Abstract P669: Inflammatory Markers and Calcification of Coronary Arteries, Aorta and Cardiac Valves in Older Adults: Findings From the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

Background: Inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. However, inflammatory biomarkers have been found to have a weak association with coronary artery calcium (CAC), a representative measure of subclinical atherosclerosis. Moreover, the existing evidence does not sufficiently explore extra coronary calcium (ECC) in this context. Aim: To characterize the association of two inflammatory markers, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and galectin-3, with CAC and ECC in a community-based cohort. Methods: Cardiac CT was performed among 1,934 ARIC participants (age 53-74 years) without coronary heart disease at visit 7 (2018-19). We examined the associations of hs-CRP and galectin-3 measured in middle age at visit 4 (1996-98) by quartile with the presence of CAC and ECC (Agatston score &gt;0 vs. 0) using multivariable logistic regression. Results: Higher hs-CRP was associated with calcifications in the ascending aorta, aortic valve ring, mitral valve and right coronary artery in the unadjusted model (Table). These associations were mostly attenuated after adjusting for potential confounders, but the associations with ascending aorta and right coronary artery calcifications remained significant (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.45 [95% CI = 1.02-2.07]) and (1.55 [1.12-2.16]) for the highest vs. lowest quartiles, respectively). Galectin-3 was also independently associated with right coronary artery calcification after adjusting for potential confounders (aOR 1.48 [1.02 - 2.01]) for the highest vs. lowest quartiles). These associations were generally consistent in demographic subgroups. Conclusions: Both hs-CRP and galectin-3 were associated with calcification of some but not all vascular beds tested, suggesting potentially unique atherosclerotic pathophysiology across different vascular beds. Robust associations of inflammatory markers with right coronary artery calcification deserve further investigation.

Formal consensus study on surgery to replace the aortic valve in adults aged 18–60 years

ObjectiveThere is uncertainty about surgical procedures for adult patients aged 18–60 years undergoing aortic valve replacement (AVR). Options include conventional AVR (mechanical, mAVR; tissue, tAVR), the pulmonary autograft (Ross) and...

Kidney function, bone-mineral metabolism markers, and calcification of coronary arteries, aorta, and cardiac valves in older adults

Background and aimsThe contribution of kidney dysfunction, especially at mild-to-moderate stages, and bone-mineral metabolism (BMM) markers to vascular calcification remains controversial or unclear. We comprehensively evaluated the association of kidney and BMM markers with coronary artery calcification (CAC) and extra-coronary calcification (ECC). MethodsIn 1931 ARIC participants (age 73–95 years) without coronary heart disease at visit 7 (2018–19), we investigated the associations of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (with creatinine, cystatin C, and both) and five serum BMM markers (calcium, fibroblast growth factor 23, magnesium, parathyroid hormone, and phosphorus) with high CAC and ECC (sex-race specific ≥75th vs. <75th percentile Agatston score) or any vs. zero CAC and ECC using multivariable logistic regression. For eGFR and BMM markers, we took their weighted cumulative averages from visit 1 (1987–89) to visit 5 (2011–13). ResultsLower eGFR, regardless of equations used, was not robustly associated with high CAC or ECC. Among BMM markers, only higher phosphorus levels, even within the normal range, showed robust associations with high CAC (only when modeled continuously) and ECC, independently of kidney function (e.g., odds ratio 1.94 [95%CI 1.38–2.73] for high aortic valve calcification, in the highest vs. lowest quartile). Results were generally consistent when analyzing any CAC or ECC, although cystatin C-based eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 became significantly associated with mitral valve calcification (odds ratio 1.69 [1.10–2.60]). ConclusionsAmong kidney and BMM measures tested, only serum phosphorus demonstrated robust associations with both CAC and ECC, supporting a key role of phosphorus in the pathophysiology of vascular calcification.

Treatment of Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis: Impact of Patient Sex and Life Expectancy on Treatment Choice.

In adults with severe aortic stenosis, sex and age differences in symptoms and diagnosis may lead to delays in intervention. Choice of intervention partly depends on expected longevity because bioprosthetic valves have limited durability, particularly in younger patients. Current guidelines recommend the following: a mechanical valve in younger adults (aged <50 years) if lifelong anticoagulation is possible and acceptable and a valve-sparing procedure is not possible; surgical mechanical or bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in adults aged 50-65 years; and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for those aged >80 years based on lower mortality and morbidity compared to SAVR and adequate valve durability. For patients aged 65-80 years, the choice between TAVI and a bioprosthetic SAVR depends on expected longevity, which is greater in women than men, as well as associated cardiac and noncardiac conditions, valvular and vascular anatomy, estimated risk of SAVR versus TAVI and expected complications and patient preferences.

453 Value Of Cardiac CT In Children And Young Adults With Congenital Heart Disease And Infective Endocarditis

Introduction: Diagnosis of Infective Endocarditis(IE) can be challenging due to negative blood cultures and difficulties in imaging. Transesophageal echocardiography(TEE) is the gold standard but due to the anterior location of the pulmonary valve, this approach is notoriously difficult and challenging. The Congenital Heart Disease(CHD) population is even more challenging due to post-surgical changes, high incidence of prosthetic material uses and abnormal valve apparatus. Cardiovascular CT(CCT) has been shown to have a diagnostic role for IE in prosthetic and bioprosthetic valves in adults.

Congenital unicuspid aortic valve repair without cusp patch augmentation.

Unicuspid aortic valves are rare congenital malformations. Surgical repair is feasible in aortic regurgitation, and in some cases of aortic stenosis. The standard surgical approach is a bicuspidization and symmetrization with pericardial patch augmentation of valve leaflets. Herein, we are describing our original technique for bicuspidization of a unicuspid aortic valve in adults without leaflet patch augmentation. We also address the surgical management of a commissural diastasis.

Ross procedure provides survival benefit over mechanical valve in adults: a propensity-matched nationwide analysis.

The choice of optimal surgical treatment for young and middle-aged adults with aortic valve disease remains a challenge. Mechanical aortic valve replacement (mAVR) is generally preferred despite promising recent outcomes of the Ross procedure. Our goal was to compare the strategies at a nationwide level. This study was a retrospective analysis of prospectively recorded data from the National Registry of Cardiac Surgery of the Czech Republic. Using propensity score matching, we compared the outcomes of patients undergoing the Ross procedure in 2 dedicated centres with all mAVRs performed in country between 2009 and 2020. Throughout the study period, 296 adults underwent the Ross procedure and 5120 had an mAVR. We found and compared 291 matched pairs. There were no in-hospital deaths, and the risk of perioperative complications was similar in both groups. Over the average follow-up period of 4.1 vs 6.1 years, the Ross group had a lower all-cause mortality (0.7 vs 6.5%; P = 0.015). This result remained significant even when accounting for cardiac- and valve-related deaths only (P = 0.048). Unlike the Ross group, the mAVR group had a significantly lower relative survival compared with the age- and sex-matched general population. There was no difference in the risk of reoperation (4.5 vs 5.5%; P = 0.66). The Ross procedure offers a significant midterm survival benefit over mAVR. The procedures have a comparable risk of perioperative complications. Patients after mAVR have reduced survival. Thus, the Ross procedure should be the preferred treatment option for young and middle-aged adults with aortic valve disease in dedicated centres.

Biological or mechanical mitral valve replacement in patients 50-70 years of age-a propensity-adjusted analysis.

The choice of a bioprosthetic valve (BV) over a mechanical valve (MV) in middle-aged adults in the mitral position is still under debate. Each valve type has benefits and drawbacks. We examined the mid-term survival of patients aged 50-70 years after BV versus MV mitral valve replacement (MVR). We conducted a multicentre, retrospective analysis of patients aged 50-70 years undergoing MVR from 2005 to December 2018 in 4 medical centres in Israel. To control for between-group differences, we used propensity-adjusted analysis. The primary end point was all-cause mortality. Secondary end points included reoperation, cerebrovascular accident and bleeding. During the study period, 2125 MVR procedures were performed. Of these, 796 were eligible for inclusion [539 (67.8%) MV replacement and 257 (32.2%) BV]. The mean age was 61.0 ± 5.4. There were 287 deaths during 4890 person-years of follow-up. The adjusted hazard ratio was (1.13 [0.85-1.49], P = 0.672). There was also no difference in the secondary end points. Subgroup analysis of patients aged 50-64 years showed a higher risk of mortality with BV (hazard ratio = 1.50 [1.07-2.1], P = 0.018). Reoperation was a strong predictor of mortality during the study period (72.2%). In patients aged 50-70 years, we found an interaction between age and MV or BV outcomes-those younger than 65 years gained a mortality advantage with MV, while outcomes were similar in the 65-70 age group. this supports the current guidelines recommending using MV in patients <65 years of age.

A case of double‐chambered right ventricle due to cap‐like fibrous tissue and aberrant chordal insertion of tricuspid valve in adult

A double-chambered right ventricle is a rare congenital heart disease where an anomalous structure divides the right ventricle into two cavities. A 78-year-old man with dyspnea was referred to our institution for a double-chambered right ventricle (DCRV) and ventricular septal defect (VSD). Echocardiography showed normal left ventricular function, right ventricular hypertrophy, and mild tricuspid regurgitation. On parasternal short-axis views, color-flow Doppler studies showed a mosaic pattern through the stenotic right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). Cardiac catheterization showed a 122 mmHg pressure gradient between the high-pressure chamber and the low-pressure chamber of the RVOT. Computed tomography showed a cap-like structure consisting of fibrous tissue, with moderate stenosis, which divided the right ventricle into two cavities. The aberrant tendinous chords supporting the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve were found inserted into the anterior wall of the RV (Figure 1). Resection of the cap-like fibrous tissue and abnormal muscle (Figure 2), detachment of aberrant tendinous chords of the tricuspid valve, closure of VSD by direct suture, and tricuspid valve plasty (TVP) were performed. TVP was achieved using an artificial chordae replacement with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (CV-5) suture and a 32-mm Physio Tricuspid annuloplasty ring (Edwards Lifeline). Postoperative echocardiography revealed no RVOT pressure gradient and a normal right ventricular pressure of 21 mmHg. In conclusion, we report a rare case of DCRV secondary to a cap-like structure fibrous tissue with anomalous chordal insertion of a tricuspid valve leaflet.

Abstract 12465: Clinical Results of a Novel Chest-Based Wearable During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Surgery for Real-Time Remote Monitoring

Objective: Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is the most common strategy for treating stenotic aortic valves in older adults. However, up to 18% of patients in the US are readmitted within 30 days, with about a third of these patients readmitted due to cardiac issues [1]. It would therefore be desirable to monitor discharged patients remotely to catch early signs of deterioration before more serious complications occur, and thereby reduce hospital readmission rates. The current gold standard for arrhythmia monitoring involves a single-lead Holter monitor in the form of a wearable chest-based patch. However, these devices usually do not track cardiac rhythms in real-time, and are typically mailed in after the wear period is over resulting in further delays. Methods: A novel chest patch capable of single-lead ECG that achieves real-time monitoring via Bluetooth and smartphone communications was used. To validate, the patch was placed on the chest of patients undergoing a TAVR; ECG was recorded and compared to gold-standard equipment. Results: ECG rhythms were collected from four patients using the patch and compared to an institutional hemodynamic monitoring system (GE MACLAB). The ECGs from each system were time aligned using a Fourier Transform method [2], R-peaks were identified using the Pan-Tompkins algorithm, heart rates were calculated over the course of the procedure by averaging R-R intervals over a 10 sec sliding window, and lastly Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between the patch and gold-standard equipment. Pearson coefficients ranged from 0.995 to 0.999 with a Mean Absolute Error of 0.55 BPM and Root Mean Square Error of 2 BPM (see fig). Conclusion: These early results suggest an excellent agreement and accuracy between the wearable device and gold-standard ECG equipment, and may pave the way for monitoring discharged patients remotely. [1] Kolte, Dhaval et al 2017 [2] Fridman, Lex et al 2016

Abstract 10670: Kidney Function, Bone-Mineral Metabolism Markers, and Calcification of Coronary Arteries, Aorta, and Cardiac Valves in Older Adults

Background: Kidney function is a crucial determinant of bone-mineral metabolism (BMM); however, the contribution of kidney dysfunction, especially at mild to moderate stages, to vascular calcification remains controversial. Moreover, little is known about whether BMM markers are associated with coronary artery calcification (CAC) and extra-coronary calcification (ECC) beyond kidney function. Methods: In 1935 ARIC participants (age 73-95 years) with no coronary heart disease and data on CAC and ECC at visit 7 (2018-2019), we evaluated estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) (based on creatinine, cystatin C, and both) and serum BMM markers (calcium, fibroblast growth factor 23, magnesium, parathyroid hormone, and phosphorus) as exposures. The exposures were modeled as weighted averages over ~15 years (visit 1 [1987-89] to visit 5 [2011-13] to allow a lag time for vascular calcification), and the outcome variables were high CAC and ECC (sex-race specific ≥75 th vs. &lt;75 th percentile Agatston score) or any CAC and ECC (Agatston score &gt;0 vs. 0) using multivariable logistic regression. Results: Low eGFR (overall range 30-149 mL/min/1.73m 2 ), regardless of equations, was not robustly associated with high CAC and ECC. Among BMM markers, only higher phosphorus levels, even within the normal range, showed significant associations with high CAC and ECC, independent of kidney function ( Figure ). Considering presence of any calcification, results were generally consistent, although cystatin C-based eGFR &lt;60 mL/min/1.73m 2 was associated with mitral valve calcification (present in 47%) (odds ratio 1.70 [95% CI 1.13, 2.58]). Conclusion: Cumulative exposure to lower eGFR showed weak associations with vascular calcification in community-dwelling older adults. Among BMM markers, phosphorus was most robustly associated with CAC and ECC beyond kidney function. Our results suggest a potential key role of phosphorus in the pathophysiology of vascular calcification.

Current Advances in Transcatheter Intervention for Children Born with Congenital Heart Defects: A Review of Literature

This review aims to sum up the improvements witnessed in the field of interventional cardiology during recent times. The last decade has witnessed significant technical advances in the field of radiological imaging and also in interventional cardiology which has helped to offer more non-invasive solutions for the management of congenital heart defects. This has resulted from the use of advanced 3-dimensional fusion imaging instead of conventional 2-dimensional angiography, applying interactive real-time enhancement and using computed tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging for interventional procedures. Similarly the introduction of next generation devices, have not only improved the final outcome of the procedure but also has helped in reducing the challenges that were faced before and with the initial generation of devices. These advances have helped not only in reducing the radiation exposure, the use of contrast medium dose but also have resulted in improved early survival. The field of neonatal cardiology has advanced at an unprecedented pace. The transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus has evolved over time and now it has been made possible at much lower body weight. Similarly, early use of stents for aortic coarctation has been found effective in some patients, especially when surgical intervention had been denied. The application of the hybrid approach for the management of complex congenital heart defects has also been effectively applied. More recently transcatheter placement of the pulmonary valve has been introduced for severely stenotic and/or regurgitant pulmonary valve in adolescents and adults. It is anticipated that in near future, this procedure would be available for relatively younger patients. In conclusion: last 2 decades have improvised pediatric interventional cardiology to incorporate less invasive solutions for CHD. The current advances in radio-diagnostic imaging, gadgetry and technical expertise have improved significantly and led to manage many of such defects by trans-catheter approach. This has led also, to replace the early surgical intervention with a more subtle hybrid approach, thus reducing not only the major surgical trauma but also been found to be cost-effective due to a shorter hospital stay. But a learning curve for performers is required for optimum results and also such procedures should be performed in a fully developed facility with an optimum surgical backup.

Minimally invasive pulmonary valve replacement via left anterior minithoracotomy.

ABSTRACT Pulmonary valve replacement is one of the most common indications for reoperation in adults with congenital heart disease. Finding an alternative to repeat median sternotomy may facilitate recovery and shorten hospital stay. We present our technique of left anterior minithoracotomy for pulmonary valve replacement.

Unicuspid Unicommissural Aortic Valve in Young Adult: Rare Congenital Abnormality Presenting as Symptomatic and Severe Aortic Stenosis

Isolated aortic valve stenosis in adults with or without aortic regurgitation is almost always secondary to a congenital valvular malformation. These congenital malformations usually present as a bicuspid, quadricuspid, or unicuspid aortic valve. The unicuspid acommissural valve has no commissures or lateral attachments to the aorta at the level of the orifice and appears as a pinhole on imaging. The unicommissural UAV has one lateral commissural attachment to the aorta at the level of the orifice and appears as a slit-shaped structure. We report the case of a 21-year-old man who presented with dyspnea, palpitations and one episode of syncope on exertion. Transesophageal echocardiography confirmed a stenotic, unicuspid, unicommissural aortic valve with dilated ascending aorta. He underwent successful aortic valve replacement since the ascending aorta was only mildly dilated (40 mm). Postoperative course was uneventful and discharge from the hospital in stable condition.

Transcatheter Decellularized Tissue-Engineered Heart Valve (dTEHV) Grown on Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) Scaffold Coated with P4HB Shows Improved Functionality over 52 Weeks due to Polyether-Ether-Ketone (PEEK) Insert.

Many congenital heart defects and degenerative valve diseases require replacement of heart valves in children and young adults. Transcatheter xenografts degenerate over time. Tissue engineering might help to overcome this limitation by providing valves with ability for self-repair. A transcatheter decellularized tissue-engineered heart valve (dTEHV) was developed using a polyglycolic acid (PGA) scaffold. A first prototype showed progressive regurgitation after 6 months in-vivo due to a suboptimal design and misguided remodeling process. A new geometry was developed accordingly with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and implemented by adding a polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) insert to the bioreactor during cultivation. This lead to more belly-shaped leaflets with higher coaptation areas for this second generation dTEHV. Valve functionality assessed via angiography, intracardiac echocardiography, and MRI proved to be much better when compared the first generation dTEHV, with preserved functionality up to 52 weeks after implantation. Macroscopic findings showed no thrombi or signs of acute inflammation. For the second generation dTEHV, belly-shaped leaflets with soft and agile tissue-formation were seen after explantation. No excessive leaflet shortening occurred in the second generation dTEHV. Histological analysis showed complete engraftment of the dTEHV, with endothelialization of the leaflets and the graft wall. Leaflets consisted of collagenous tissue and some elastic fibers. Adaptive leaflet remodeling was visible in all implanted second generation dTEHV, and most importantly no fusion between leaflet and wall was found. Very few remnants of the PGA scaffold were detected even 52 weeks after implantation, with no influence on functionality. By adding a polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) insert to the bioreactor construct, a new geometry of PGA-scaffold based dTEHV could be implemented. This resulted in very good valve function of the implanted dTEHV over a period of 52 weeks.

Abstract 16922: Accelerated Degeneration and Late Detachment of the Freestyle Aortic Root in Young Adults

Introduction: The ideal valve substitute for the aortic valve in young adults is yet to be identified. The Freestyle stentless aortic root seems to be a viable candidate, but there is not enough data about how it behaves in young patients. Methods: This study reports the mid-term clinical outcome after total aortic root replacement with stentless porcine root (Medtronic Freestyle) for patients younger than 50 years, in a single center, during the period from 2009 to 2017. Results: 173 patients were enrolled to this study. The median age at operation was 32 years (6-50). 56% were males. 89 patients (51%) had rheumatic heart disease, while 25 patients (14%) had bicuspid aortic valve. 10 patients (6%) had aortic aneurysm. The median valve size was 25 (21-29). 43 patients (25%) had a concomitant procedure during operation, mostly mitral valve surgery. The median bypass time was 180 minutes (82-380). The median follow-up period was 41 months (2-101). In-hospital mortality was 1.2%, while late mortality was 4%. Valve degeneration included virtual disappearance of the walls of the sinuses (encountered in 2 patients after 9 months and 3 years) and late detachment of the valve ring (in 2 patients after 2 and 5 years), resulting in false aneurysms (Figure 1a). Alarmingly, 2 of the patients who developed false aneurysms were discovered by MSCT during routine follow-up, one of them had a normal MSCT 3 years earlier, 2 years after the operation (Figure 1b). 3 patients had re-operation for false aneurysm, with no early mortality. One patient presented in cardiogenic shock caused by severe stenosis due to calcification (Figure 1c) and died after re-operation. Structural valve deterioration (defined as mean aortic gradient &gt; 20 mmHg or aortic regurgitation &gt; 2/4) was 21 ± 8% at 5 years. Freedom from aortic reintervention is 98 ± 3% at 5 years. Conclusions: Although the Freestyle aortic root offers excellent hemodynamics, the risk of early degeneration and the development of false aneurysms were found to be major concerns. Freestyle implantation in young patients should be used with caution. We recommend annual screening of those patients with contrast-enhanced imaging for early detection of such complications.