Extended hockey stick aortotomy for Perceval valve implantation: how to
reshape properly the aortic root
Abstract
The Perceval Valve is a true sutureless aortic bioprosthesis. Overall,
excellent performances have been demonstrated in terms of hemodynamic
outcomes, safety and versatility of use; furthermore, as a sutureless
valve option, it has shown to reduce the surgical burden, shortening the
operative times and simplifying minimally invasive procedures. Since the
valve has got a high frame profile, the recommended implantation
technique requires a high and transverse aortotomy. In case of unplanned
Perceval valve implantation, when an extended aortotomy is required, we
have come up with a simple technique to reshape the aortic root before
the valve is delivered in place: symmetry is pivotal to prevent folding
issues and to improve the annular sealing. Although we discuss an
out-of-recommendation use, in our experience that technique has shown to
be safe and effective.