Early and long-term results of reoperative total aortic root replacement with reimplantation of the coronary arteries

Background: Total root replacement with biologic valves and reimplantation of the coronaries gives good early and midterm results. There is continuing concern, however, regarding the risks and long-term results for reoperation after total replacement of the aortic root with reimplantation of the coronaries. Methods: Between June 1981 and July 2010, a total of 84 patients underwent reoperative aortic root replacement with reimplantation of the coronaries (60 male, mean age 38 ± 15 years). All patients had undergone first-time total aortic root replacement with homografts (82 patients) or autografts (2 patients). Indication for reoperation was structural valve deterioration in 72 patients (85%) and infective endocarditis in 12 patients (15%). Mean interval between first operation and reoperation was 11.1 ± 4.7 years (range, 1 month-24.7 years). Median length of follow-up was 9.7 ± 5.6 years (range, 1 month-24.4 years). Results: Thirty-day mortality was 2.4% (n = 2 patients). Both patients died postoperatively of low-output syndromes with multiorgan failure. At reoperation, 74 patients received homografts (87%), 7 patients underwent a Ross procedure (9%), and 3 received stentless porcine roots (4%). One patient required pacemaker implantation (1%). Actuarial survivals were 89% ± 4% and 81% ± 5% at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Nine patients underwent a successful third root replacement during follow-up. Freedom from third-time aortic root operation was 97% ± 3% at 10 years. Conclusions: Reoperative aortic root replacement can be performed safely with good short-term and midterm outcomes in a young patient cohort.