Ross procedure
Pronunciation: ross pro-SEE-jer
Surgical procedure that replaces the aortic valve with the patient's own pulmonary valve, with a conduit then placed from the right ventricle to pulmonary artery.
Full Definition
The Ross procedure, also known as the pulmonary autograft procedure, is a complex surgical technique primarily used for aortic valve replacement in children and young adults. The procedure involves removing the patient's pulmonary valve and using it to replace the diseased aortic valve, taking advantage of the pulmonary valve's similar structure and growth potential. A conduit (typically a homograft or prosthetic valve) is then placed between the right ventricle and pulmonary artery to restore right heart function. The major advantage is that the autograft grows with the child and does not require anticoagulation. However, the procedure creates a two-valve problem, as both the neoaortic valve (pulmonary autograft) and the RVOT conduit may require future intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Donald Ross; emphasize that it involves both aortic and pulmonary valve operations.
In Context
- "The Ross procedure was chosen for aortic valve replacement in this adolescent patient." — Surgical consultation note
- "Long-term outcomes after Ross procedure show excellent autograft function in most patients." — Research article