Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026

Full-root Aortic Valve Replacement by Stentless Aortic Xenografts in Patients with Small Aortic Roots
Published on: May 21, 2017
Aortic root geometry: pattern of differences between leaflets and sinuses of Valsalva
S J Choo1, G McRae, J P Olomon
1International Heart Institute of Montana Foundation, St. Patrick Hospital, Missoula, Montana 59802, USA.
Background And Aims Of The Study:
Growing interest in aortic root replacement with the use of stentless auto-, homo- and xenografts, and new developments in aortic valve conservation demand a deeper understanding of the normal aortic root anatomy.
Methods:
Ten cryopreserved human aortic roots were pressurized, fixed and measured directly (leaflet free edge and attachment) and using three-dimensional computed tomography imaging software (sinus of Valsalva height and volume).
Results:
The mean of the measurements of all four parameters yielded a pattern in which the non-coronary sinus (N) structures had the greatest dimensions followed by the right (R) and then the left (L). Non-parametric ANOVA on each of these parameters also showed significant differences among the sinuses yielding a pattern of N > R > L. This pattern determined an angle of tilt between the plane at the base (annulus) and the plane intersecting the sinotubular junction with a mean value of 11 degrees. Linear regression indicated that this angle did not depend on the size of the base (annulus).
Conclusions:
The data showed a geometric pattern of the aortic root, with the structures of the non-coronary sinus being the largest followed by the right and then the left. The possible hemodynamic relevance and surgical implications of these findings need to be explored.
Related Concept Videos
Chambers of the Heart
Deoxygenated blood from the body is received in the right...
Heart Valves
The AV valves prevent the backflow of blood from the ventricles to the atria during ventricular contraction. These valves function with the assistance of the chordae tendineae and papillary muscles. When the ventricles are relaxed, the chordae tendineae are slack, allowing blood to flow from the atria into the...
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

