A case report of aortic root repair using a pericardial autograft for type A aortic dissection

Acute type A aortic dissection with a dissection flap extending into the sinus segment often involves the commissures and the coronary ostia. In most cases, the intimal flap must be retained in order to restore aortic valve competence and reconstruct the coronary ostia. Residual dissection flap has the potential risks of proximal bleeding and adverse effects on long-term durability. We established a novel technique to reconstruct the aortic root using a pericardial autograft and significantly reduce remnant dissection tissues.

A 50-year-old female was admitted to our center with acute anterior chest pain and backache lasting about 10 h. Computed tomographic (CT) scans showed type A aortic dissection, with both coronary ostia being involved. Doppler echocardiography showed moderate aortic insufficiency. The dissection intimal flap was removed to the normal aorta wall near the annulus at the noncoronary sinus, leaving a 5 mm rim of intimal flap near the commissures and coronary ostia. Using a pericardial patch as a new aortic wall to reconstruct the root while preserving the aortic adventitia to fix and strengthen the new pericardial aortic wall. Ascending aorta and total arch replacement combined with frozen elephant trunk procedure was performed at the same time. The patient got an uneventful postoperative course.

Aortic root repair with a pericardial autograft is a safe and effective technique to treat acute type A dissection involving the sinus. Using this technique, residual dissection tissues could be significantly reduced, which subsequently decreases the risk of proximal bleeding and hence increases long-term durability.