The 9 Stress-free Stitches Technique: Feasibility and Outcomes of a New Technique for Aortic Valve Replacement

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and short-term outcomes of a novel surgical technique, named 'the nine stress-free stitches technique' for aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with aortic valve disease. Methods: From May 2013 to October 2015, 63 consecutive patients underwent aortic valve replacement with the nine stress-free stitches technique, using the Magna Ease bioprosthesis (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA, USA). Demographics, clinical and echocardiographic data were collected retrospectively. The primary endpoints were paravalvular leak, pacemaker insertion, and mortality. Results: There was one case of moderate paravalvular leak. 2 patients required permanent pacemaker implantation. In-Hospital mortality was 6.3%. All deaths were in redo or combined procedure patients. Conclusion: This preliminary series demonstrates that the nine stress-free stitches technique is an acceptable technique for aortic valve replacement. The potential advantages are reduced ischemic time, especially in combined procedures, with easy replication.