How to avoid oversizing Perceval sutureless aortic valve: Technique

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Device Technology
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Sutureless aortic valves, such as the Perceval sutureless aortic valve (PSV), have transformed aortic valve replacement.
• Oversizing the PSV has been identified as a potential complication, leading to issues like stent recoil.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel technique for sizing the PSV using only the white obturator.
• To compare the outcomes of this new sizing technique against the manufacturer's recommendations.

Main Methods:

• A modified sizing technique was developed utilizing solely the white obturator for the PSV.
• The outcomes of this technique were retrospectively analyzed, focusing on paravalvular leak rates, pacemaker implantation, and transvalvular gradients.

Main Results:

• The novel sizing technique demonstrated low rates of paravalvular leaks.
• Pacemaker implantation rates were significantly reduced with this method.
• Good transvalvular gradients were achieved, indicating effective valve function.

Conclusions:

• The technique of sizing the PSV with only the white obturator is effective and safe.
• This method offers an improvement over the manufacturer's sizing instructions for PSV.
• Adoption of this technique can enhance patient outcomes in aortic valve replacement surgery.