Preventative valve-sparing aortic root replacement and pregnancy outcome in Marfan syndrome
Sokol, V.; Zlopasa, G.; Herman, M.; Planinić, P.; Micevska, A.
Collegium Antropologicum 36(2): 677-679
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 0350-6134 PMID: 22856263 Document Number: 658889
In Marfan syndrome, with dilatation of the aortic root secondary to an underlying connective tissue defect, pregnancy can cause hemodynamic stress leading to the development of an aortic aneurysm and even a fatal aortic dissection. In the presence of existing aortic root enlargement and a family history of aortic dissection, preventative elective surgery is suggested. Aortic root replacement with or without a valve-sparing procedure is superior to total aortic root replacement with prosthetic valve/tube graft. It provides excellent survival with low rates of aortic - valve related complications.