Background: In the Ross procedure a valved conduit is used in place of autotransplanted pulmonary valve. Despite Ross procedure’ advantages, there is a certain risk of structural valve deterioration, especially of the cryopreserved pulmonary allograft as a result of shrinkage and subsequent stenosis predominantly. This study analyzed our results of the CryoValve SynerGraft decellularized pulmonary heart valve (SGDPV) implanted in patients undergoing a Ross procedure.

Methods: Between 2000 and 2008, 27 consecutive patients received a SGPV during the Ross procedure. Patient age ranged from 4 mo to 58 years, mean age at implant was 28.2 years. Retrospective data included reported adverse events and recent hemodynamic results.

Results: There was no operative mortality and late mortality or morbidity during the mean follow-up of 4.1+2.1 years (range 3 mo to 8 years). No patients required reoperation. The median gradient at discharge was 12 mm Hg, which remained uncharged at last follow-up. No deterioration in conduit or conduit valve function was noted.

Conclusions: The new SGDPV conduit can be a viable alternative to a cryopreserved homograft in the Ross procedure. The early clinical and hemodynamic results are encouraging. SG technology may provide a more durable, low risk option for those patients needing heart valve replacements.