The Ross procedure is a jot down of heart surgery that is used toreplace a damaged aortic valve.
The aortic valve allows blood to move from your heart into youraorta.
Your aorta carries blood from your heart to the rest of your body.
Photo composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
The Ross procedure removes the diseased aortic valve and replaces it with your own pulmonary valve.
A donor pulmonary valve replaces your own.
This procedure works best for active, healthy people under age 60.
It may also be an option for teens, children, and some babies under 1 year old.
This article describes the Ross procedure and how it compares to other treatments.
It explains who qualifies and what to expect as you recover.
Replacement is necessary when repairing a damaged aortic valve will not restore the valve to its normal function.
Aortic valve replacement surgery can be performed using traditional open techniques or minimally invasive methods.
There are also several options regarding the bang out of valves used in aortic valve replacement surgery.
The replacement valve is preserved with antibiotics and frozen until needed.
Taking anticoagulants is not necessary.
Your breastbone is divided so your surgeon can see and gain direct access to your heart and aorta.
These procedures are also known as laparoscopic or keyhole procedures.
The Ross procedure involves removing a diseased aortic valve and replacing it with your own pulmonary valve.
Relocating the pulmonary valve is possible because it is anatomically similar to an aortic valve.
As the relocated pulmonary valve adjusts to its new position, it becomes thicker and stronger.
Within a few months, it functions like a healthy aortic valve.
The space left from your relocated pulmonary valve is filled with a pulmonary valve from a donor heart.
A Ross procedure can take six to eight hours.
It represents just 0.09% of all aortic valve replacements performed in the United States.
Talk to your cardiologist to find a surgeon that specializes in the Ross procedure.
Your surgeon will provide instructions and guidelines specific to your condition and recovery plan.
It is common to spend the first two to three days after surgery in a CCU.
In some cases, aspirin may be prescribed.
It provides superior long-term survival, with those treated having survival rates that match the normal population.
When a damaged aorta can’t be repaired, a new aortic valve can restore normal function.
The Ross procedure removes your damaged aortic valve and replaces it with your own pulmonary valve.
Using your natural tissue provides a stable substitute without the risk of rejection.
A pulmonary valve from a donor heart is used to replace your pulmonary valve.
The Ross procedure offers a unique aortic valve replacement choice.
It provides those treated with a life expectancy close to people with healthy hearts.
Other benefits include long-term valve life without the need for blood thinners.
Contact your healthcare provider or cardiologist to discuss whether the Ross procedure is right for you.
They can help you find a trained Ross surgeon if you decide to pursue this treatment.
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