Aortic root replacement using a biovalsalva prosthesis in comparison to a "handsewn" composite bioprosthesis.

Background: The Biovalsalva aortic root prosthesis incorporates an Elan porcine stentless biological aortic valve suspended within a triple-layered vascular conduit with preformed aortic sinuses of Valsalva. This study compared implantation of the Biovalsalva prosthesis with a "handsewn" composite bioprosthetic graft (CE Perimount bovine bioprosthesis anastomosed to a gelatin-impregnated gelweave Dacron graft).

Methods: Between December 2004 and January 2009, 39 patients underwent elective or urgent aortic root replacement (modified Bentall procedure with coronary button reimplantation) using a Biovalsalva (n = 21) or a handsewn bioprosthesis (n = 18) for aortic root dilatation.