[Long-term evaluation of aortic root replacement using Svensson technique with multislice computed tomography]

The Svensson technique of aortic root composite valve graft replacement, which involves reimplantation of the left coronary ostium with a long interposed graft wrapping behind the composite graft, is technically simple and advantageous. However, surgeons must be concerned about complications regarding the long interposed graft in the long-term follow-up. In 32 cases with the Svensson technique, we evaluated their replaced aortic roots by multislice computed tomography (MDCT) at 4.5 +/- 3.6 years (maximum, 14.9 years) postoperatively. The mean age was 54.5 +/- 14.1 years and 22 patients were male. No patients have experienced any complications regarding the technique at the follow-up of 6.9 +/- 4.9 years (maximum, 16.4 years). No structural complications were detected by MDCT of all patients. In conclusions, the Svensson technique was demonstrated to be favorable with no technical problems in the long-term evaluations with MDCT. The Svensson technique can be considered as a justifiable technique in any aortic root replacements including complicated or redo aortic roots.