Re: Ross Procedure/Homografts

Posted By Eric on May 19, 1999 at 09:17:38
I am a 47 yo with aortic stenosis, mild at this point.
After a review of the various types of valve replacements, I am leaning towards having the Ross procedure done, possibly an aortic homograft instead.
I know this is not a common procedure and I would like to find out which centers are performing the most of these procedures.
Would you know where I can find this kind of data?
How many Ross procedures are done on adults at the Cleveland Clinic?  What kind of long term follow-up has your center done and how can I get that info?
Is ther any newer data on the life expectancy of an aortic homograft?  I believe there are some newer techniques to extend their durablility and performance.
Thank you for your help.

[CCF CARDIO MD DLB]

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on May 20, 1999 at 13:04:54
Dear Eric
I think that, for appropriate candidates, the aortic homograft is probably the best way to go. Results and durability are at least as good as the tissue valves. Very long term follow up is not yet available. There is the chance of needing a re-operation if you live long enough.
The Ross procedure has been performed successfully here at the Cleveland Clinic. Actually, it is our pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons that perform it, even in adults. Our adult cardiac surgeons, however, do not feel that the Ross procedure is a good long term surgery.
I hope this has been useful. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to write back.
Information provided here is for general purposes only. Specific questions should be addressed to your own doctor. If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter. The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.











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