Aortic valve reimplantation in patients with connective tissue syndromes: A 15-year follow-up

The goal of this study was to analyse early- and long-term outcomes of aortic valve reimplantation (David operation) in patients with heritable thoracic aortic disease.

This is a retrospective observational analysis using data from a prospectively maintained surgical database from March 2004 to April 2021. Patients with heritable thoracic aortic disease were included in the study.

A total of 157 patients with aortic root aneurysm with the diagnosis of heritable thoracic aortic disease received the David procedure. Marfan syndrome was found in 143 (91.1%) patients, Loeys-Dietz in 13 and Ehler-Danlos in 1 patient. The median age was 35.0 (IQR: 17.5) years and the median ascending aorta diameter in the Valsalva sinuses was 48 mm (IQR: 4). A Valsalva graft was used in 8 patients; the David V technique was performed in the rest of the cases. The median follow-up time was 7.3 years [standard deviation: 0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.12-8.05]. Only 2 patients died during the follow-up period. The overall survival was 99% (95% CI: 95%; 99%); 98% (95% CI: 92%; 99%); and 98% (95% CI: 92%; 99%) at 5, 10 and 15 years. Freedom from significant aortic regurgitation (AR> II), reintervention and postoperative type-B dissection was 90% (95% CI: 77%; 95%), 96% (95% CI: 91%; 99%) and 87% (95% CI: 68%; 95%) at 15 years, respectively. No differences were found in any outcome between Marfan syndrome and Loeys-Dietz syndrome. No statistically significant differences in survival were found when we compared expected gender- and age-specific population survival values.

The David operation is an excellent option for the treatment of patients with heritable thoracic aortic disease and dilatated aortic root. Surgical expertise in referral centres is essential to achieve the best long-term results.