Ventricular aneurysm repair: a new approach

Repair of chronic left ventricular aneurysm or acute rupture of the heart after myocardial infarction is associated with technical difficulties and major morbidity and mortality. We describe a new endoventricular repair for both conditions. The repair consists of externally covering a Duran ring with Dacron and internally lining it with autologous pericardium. The modified ring is then sewn into the neck of the lesion. The technique is rapid, simple, and hemostatic. After repair of the chronic aneurysm, ventricular hemodynamics are improved during both diastole and systole. We have performed this technique in two patients with chronic aneurysm and one with subacute rupture.