V-shape noncoronary sinus remodeling in ascending aortic aneurysm and aortic root ectasia

Objective: The study objective was to describe our initial experience performing a V-shaped single sinus remodeling procedure in patients with ascending aortic aneurysm and moderate aortic root ectasia.

Methods: Twelve consecutive patients underwent supracoronary ascending aortic replacement with V-shaped noncoronary sinus remodeling (median age, 63 years [range, 56-77]; 10 patients [83%] were male). All patients had an ascending aortic aneurysm (median diameter 48 mm [range, 42-53]) and aortic root ectasia (median root diameter, 43 mm [range, 38-49.7 mm]). A deep V-shaped (triangular) portion of the noncoronary sinus was excised, and the wall was directly reapproximated in 2 layers, 1 everting mattress suture layer followed by a running over-and-over layer.

Results: No technical complication due to root remodeling was observed. All patients survived the initial hospitalization. Only 1 patient required reexploration for bleeding, unrelated to the V-shaped repair. On postoperative computed tomography, every patient showed reduction in maximal aortic root diameter and cross-sectional area. Mean aortic root diameter was reduced from 4.30 cm (range, 3.82-4.97) to 3.81 cm (range, 3.58-3.96) (P < .0006). Mean aortic root cross-sectional area was reduced from 1452 mm² (range, 1327-1615) to 1180 mm² (range, 961-1328) (P < .0002). Mean wall tension decreased postoperatively by 12%.

Conclusions: The V-shaped resection of the noncoronary sinus is a viable option for patients with moderate aortic root enlargement. This technique reduces aortic root diameter, cross-sectional area, and wall tension. We offer this technique as another option in the surgeon's armamentarium.