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Updated: Aug 29, 2025
14:14
Standardized Technique of Aortic Valve Re-implantation for Valve-sparing Aortic Root Replacement
Published on: December 11, 2017
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Personalized external aortic root support in aneurysm disease
Tom Treasure1, Conal Austin2, Louise Amelia Kenny3
1Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University College London, London WC1E 6BT UK.
Current Opinion in Cardiology
|September 12, 2022
Summary
Personalised external aortic root support (PEARS) is a proven prophylactic operation for aortic root aneurysm, with excellent results when protocols are followed. Ongoing studies explore its use in Marfan patients and as an adjunct to other procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Devices
- Aortic Aneurysm Treatment
Background:
- Personalised external aortic root support (PEARS) is an emerging surgical technique for aortic root aneurysm.
- Global adoption is increasing, with nearly 700 operations performed across 30 international centers.
- Long-term outcomes and patient selection criteria are areas of active investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize recent publications on personalised external aortic root support (PEARS).
- To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and evolving applications of PEARS.
- To provide an updated perspective on the current state of PEARS in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of publications on PEARS from the preceding 18 months.
- Analysis of reported surgical outcomes, including aortic dimensions, valve function, and mortality.
- Assessment of patient demographics and adherence to operative protocols.
Main Results:
- PEARS demonstrates continued stability in aortic dimensions and valve function when surgical guidelines are followed.
- The median aortic root diameter in Marfan patients undergoing PEARS (47 mm) suggests a need to reconsider the 50 mm criterion.
- Peri-operative mortality is low (<0.3%), with the first patient alive and well after 18 years.
Conclusions:
- Personalised external aortic root support (PEARS) is a successful prophylactic operation for aortic root aneurysm.
- Strict adherence to operative protocols and proctoring are crucial for achieving excellent results.
- Further research is exploring PEARS as an adjunct to the Ross operation and in specific patient populations.
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