Valve-sparing root replacement with root reduction plasty and patch neointima placement.

We describe an alternative valve-sparing aortic root replacement technique for patients with root aneurysms accompanied by aortic valve insufficiency. Aortic root reduction plasty was accomplished by plication and exclusion of parts of the sinus walls. Subsequently, 3 teardrop-shaped patches compatible with the sizes and shapes of the corresponding plicated sinuses were sutured inside the sinuses as neointima, and in situ coronary buttons were connected to the small holes created in the corresponding patches. A Dacron tube graft was then anastomosed to the reconstructed aortic root with incorporation of the distal margin of the implanted patches. Our initial application showed that this combined root reduction plasty and patch neointima placement is a feasible valve-sparing aortic root replacement technique. This combined technique easily restores the aortic root geometry and effectively prevents bleeding.