Surgical treatment for aortic regurgitation caused by aortitis

Objective: To evaluate the surgical results of aortic regurgitation caused by aortitis. Methods: Results: Between 1990 and 2002, 20 patients with aortic regurgitation caused by aortitis underwent surgery. The surgical procedures included aortic valve replacement in 12 patients and aortic root replacement in 8 (Bentall type operation in 5, Cabrol type operative in 2, and David type operation in one). Conclusion: There was no operative death. The follow-up duration ranged from 2 to 61 months (mean, 24 months). Postoperative perivalvular leakage and/or detachment of the prosthetic valve occurred in 7 patients after aortic valve replacement. 7 patients required re-operation, and 3 patients underwent third operation due to perivalvular leakage. There were 4 later deaths (20%). Conclusion: The timing for the operation, selection of operative procedure, and preoperative control of active inflammation were essential for successful treatment of aortic regurgitation caused by aortitis.