Decellularized aortic homografts versus mechanical composite grafts for aortic root replacement

Mechanical composite valve grafts (MCVGs) are the first-line therapy for aortic root replacement in young adults. Decellularized aortic homografts (DAH) present a promising novel alternative due to their lower thrombogenicity. We aimed to compare both treatment options regarding survival and valve-related adverse events.

This study was designed as a single-centre retrospective cohort study including patients who underwent root replacement with MCVG or DAH between 2000 and 2022. Urgent or emergent procedures were excluded.

The study cohort included 289 patients (MCVG n = 216, DAH n = 73) with a mean age of 48.5 ± 12 years (MCVG 49 ± 12 years vs DAH 47 ± 11 years; P = 0.23) and a median EuroScore II of 1.7% (1.2, 2.6). The 30-day mortality was 1% (n = 3). Cumulative survival at 3 years was 99% for DAH and 94% for MCVG, respectively (P = 0.15). Mean follow-up was 98.9 ± 72.7 months. Bleeding events (n = 14, 6.5%) and thromboembolism (n = 14, 6.5%) were only observed in the MCVG group (P = 0.19 and 0.09, respectively). Four cases (5%) of moderate structural valve deterioration occurred, all in the DAH group (P ≤ 0.001). The cumulative incidence of a composite end point of valve-related adverse events was significantly higher in the MCVG group (P = 0.0295).

Aortic root replacement with MCVGs and decellularized aortic homografts showed low mortality in an elective setting. Patients in the homograft cohort demonstrated significantly higher freedom from valve-related adverse events. DAH present a promising treatment option for young patients requiring root replacement; however, data on long-term durability are needed.