Ross procedure
Complex cardiac surgery replacing the aortic valve with the patient's own pulmonary valve.
Full Definition
The Ross procedure is a specialized cardiac surgical technique for aortic valve replacement in which the patient's own pulmonary valve (pulmonary autograft) is moved to the aortic position, and the pulmonary valve is replaced with a homograft or bioprosthetic valve. This double-switch operation is primarily performed in young patients with aortic valve disease, as the autograft can grow with the patient and does not require anticoagulation. The procedure offers excellent hemodynamics and durability but carries higher operative complexity and the theoretical risk of eventually requiring two valve replacements. Patient selection is critical, considering age, valve pathology, and long-term anticoagulation tolerance.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Donald Ross. Reserved for specific patient populations due to complexity and expertise required.
In Context
- "The 25-year-old patient underwent successful Ross procedure for bicuspid aortic valve disease." — Case report
- "Long-term outcomes following Ross procedure show excellent valve function and patient survival." — Clinical research