Technique for complete subcoronary implantation of the Medtronic Freestyle porcine bioprosthesis.

Abstract

Nonstented porcine bioprostheses offer the surgeon a larger implant option with better hemodynamics than stented counterparts by eliminating the space occupied by the frame. A secondary benefit may be improved durability related to reduction of leaflet stresses created by the frame. The Medtronic Freestyle stentless porcine aortic root can be implanted as a root replacement, as a miniroot cylinder within the aorta, or as a partially or completely scalloped valve replacement. This report describes an easy, reliable, and reproducible technique of completely scalloped valve replacement performed in a population of 75 patients with Freestyle implants and uses the anatomy of the Freestyle and human aortic roots to facilitate the implant technique.