ObjectivesTo investigate simple assess method of the degree of low transvalvular gradient aortic stenosis patients with impaired left ventricular function and to investigate aortic valve replacement indications, short and mid-term outcome of this kind of patients. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 21 low-gradient patients with impaired left ventricular function in our hospital from January 2011 through May 2014. There were 15 males and 6 females aged 41-66 (54.6± 10.7) years with mean aortic transvalvular gradient less than 40 mm Hg and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) less than 50%. ResultsIn response to dobutamine echocardiography stress test, 20 patients underwent aortic valve replacement. The result of intraoperative pathology showed 11 patients were with bicuspid aortic valve malformation, 4 patients with degenerative changes, 4 patients with rheumatic disease. During the same period, 3 patients underwent atrial fibrillation ablation, 1 patient with ascending aorta replacement, 2 patients with coronary artery bypass grafting, 1 patient with mitral valvuloplasty. One patient died of multiple organ failure on the fourth day after operation. The remaining patients recovered. The patients were followed up for 3 to 37 months after operation. Heart function of majority improved to gradeⅠorⅡin 3 months after surgery. The result of echocardiogram showed prosthetic valve function was good and LVEF increased (preoperative 35.7%± 8.2% vs. postoperative 49.4%± 7.2%). One patient suffered sudden death of unknown cause in the 11th months after operation. ConclusionsFor patients whose dobutamine echocardiography stress test displayed with true severe aortic stenosis and left ventricular contractile reserve capacity, after aortic valve replacement and relief of the obstruction, the left ventricular afterload decreases significantly, the left ventricular function also improves, LVEF and the quality of life improve significantly after operation.
ObjectiveTo evaluate the short-term result of proximal lengthening grafted stent and modified innominate artery cannula for Stanford A aortic dissection. Method We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 21 patients with Stanford A aortic dissection in our hospital between December 2012 and January 2015. There were 16 males and 5 females at a mean age of 57 years. All 21 patients underwent total arch replacement with proximal lengthening grafted stent and modified innominate artery cannula invented by our center. Result The mean operation time of 21 patients was 187.0±31.1 minutes, the mean cardiopulmonary bypass time was 116.0±32.0 minutes, the mean aortic block time was 87.0±23.0 minutes, the mean selective cerebral perfusion (SCP) time was 23.0±3.9 minutes, the mean breathing machanical ventilation time was 19.0±6.0 hours, and the mean intensive care unit stay time was 3.0±0.9 days. All patients had a good recovery after surgery. There was no death or severe complications. ConclusionThe technique of total arch replacement with proximal lengthening grafted stent and modified innominate artery cannula for Stanford A aortic dissection is effective, easy, and safe. The short-term result is satisfying.