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Updated: Aug 14, 2026
12:17
Full-root Aortic Valve Replacement by Stentless Aortic Xenografts in Patients with Small Aortic Roots
Published on: May 21, 2017
Aortic root triangulation as a cause of sudden death
P M Sagar1, G W Dyke, L M Gerlis
1Department of Surgery, Leeds General Infirmary, UK.
Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & Pharmacotherapie
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Sudden death in patients with Starr-Edwards aortic valve prostheses can occur due to aortic root triangulation. Careful sizing of the aortic root is crucial during surgery to prevent this complication.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Pathology
Background:
- The Starr-Edwards prosthesis is a mechanical heart valve used to replace damaged aortic valves.
- Sudden death following aortic valve replacement necessitates thorough investigation into potential complications.
Observation:
- An autopsy review of 36 patients who died suddenly after Starr-Edwards aortic valve implantation was conducted.
- Fifteen explanted valves showed aortic outlet narrowing caused by the prosthetic cage, leading to triangular distortion.
Findings:
- Aortic root triangulation was identified as a complication in 15 of 36 patients (41.7%).
- In the remaining 21 patients, sudden death was unrelated to mechanical valve failure.
- Aortic root triangulation, while uncommon, is a potential risk associated with the Starr-Edwards prosthesis.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the critical importance of accurate aortic root diameter sizing during surgical implantation.
- Highlights the ongoing need for research into conservative valve reconstruction techniques to mitigate risks associated with mechanical valves.
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