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The Ross operation in children: 10-year experience
R C Elkins1, C J Knott-Craig, K E Ward
1Section of Thoracic Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73190, USA.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|March 4, 1998
Summary
The Ross operation offers excellent long-term survival and function for pediatric aortic valve replacement, with most patients maintaining an active lifestyle without anticoagulants.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Aortic Valve Disease
Background:
- The Ross operation, a pediatric aortic valve replacement technique introduced in 1968, presents unique surgical challenges.
- Despite technical demands, its potential as an ideal aortic valve replacement warrants continued investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the midterm and long-term outcomes of the Ross operation in pediatric patients.
- To assess the durability and functional results of autograft and homograft valves used in the Ross procedure.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 150 consecutive pediatric patients (age 7 days to 21 years) who underwent the Ross operation.
- Follow-up data collected within 12 months, with echocardiographic assessments performed within 1-2 years post-operation.
Main Results:
- Eight-year survival rate was 97.3%.
- Freedom from reoperation for autograft dysfunction was 90% +/- 4% at 8 years; for homograft obstruction, it was 94% +/- 3%.
- All patients reported a normal, active lifestyle without the need for anticoagulation therapy.
Conclusions:
- The Ross operation is a highly effective and preferred aortic valve replacement strategy for children.
- The procedure demonstrates favorable long-term results, including excellent survival and valve function, enabling an active lifestyle.