Branching externalized guidewire to facilitate retrograde endograft deployment in the hybrid aortic repair with aortic valve replacement.

Background: The hybrid aortic repair consisting of root replacement and endovascular arch repair is an optimal alternative for patients unfit for circulatory arrest. However, an artificial aortic valve prosthesis might impede the endovascular procedure. This study aims to present our experience with the branching retrograde externalized guidewire (BREG) technique in such situations, and discuss its utility and efficiency.

Methods: From January 2015 to June 2021, a total of 112 patients underwent aortic root/valve replacement combined with aortic arch repair. Among them, the BREG technique was adopted on 24 patients, and the traditional frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique was used for 88 patients. The indication of the BREG was as follows: high-risk patients not suitable for traditional open surgery; meanwhile, the aortic disease required extended repair, and the aortic valve needed to be replaced concomitantly. The data of the 2 groups were compared.

Results: The cardiopulmonary bypass time (213.5 ± 73.6 min vs. 246.5 ± 46.2 min, P = 0.046) and cross-clamped time (109.0 ± 27.6 min vs. 139.0 ± 24.6 min, P < 0.001) were significantly shorter in the BREG group than that in the FET group. Less operative red blood cell consumption was achieved in the BREG group (6.6 ± 5.7 vs. 9.4 ± 8.0 U, P = 0.046). The 30-day mortality was similar between the 2 groups (8.3% BREG vs. 9.1% FET, P > 0.999).

Conclusion: The BREG technique facilitated the advancement of endovascular stent graft, avoided impeding the aortic valve prosthesis in hybrid aortic surgery with aortic valve replacement, and may benefit high-risk patients.