Normal left ventricular function following pulmonary autograft replacement of the aortic valve in children

To assess growth potential and hemodynamic sequelae of pulmonary autograft valves implanted into aortic outflow tracts of children, we reviewed our experience with 37 patients (2-21 years) from August 1986 to December 1990. Twenty patients had predominantly aortic stenosis (AS), and 17 had aortic insufficiency (AI). Operative mortality was 3%. Two technical failures required reoperation. Of survivors, six (18%) have moderate AI. Pre- and postoperative echocardiograms were reviewed. The AS group showed increased left ventricular (LV) cavity size by > 1-year follow-up, and decreased LV wall and interventricular septal thickness. In the AI group, wall and septal thickness increased by 10 days and LV cavity decreased by 10 days, 60 days, and > 1 year. Root replacements (n = 14) showed mean increases of 4.3 mm and 5.3 mm, respectively, in diameters of the aortic annulus and aortic sinuses at > 1 year. Intraaortic implants increased 3.1 mm (annulus) and 3.9 mm (sinuses) at > 1 year. The pulmonary autograft procedure is safe, and successful implantation normalizes LV dimensions and function rapidly. The autograft valve shows evidence of growth at > 1 year postoperative. The pulmonary autograft may be the ideal valve replacement in children.