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Ross procedure (aortic valve repair)

Ross procedure (aortic valve repair)
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The Ross Procedure can be very effective for treating damaged aortic valves. It replaces a nonfunctioning aortic valve with the patient’s own pulmonary valve and a healthy donor valve replaces the original pulmonary valve. Erol Belli, MD, is a University of Florida associate professor of surgery and a board-certified thoracic and cardiac surgeon at UF Health Jacksonville who specializes in the Ross Procedure. Dr. Belli also serves as co-chief of the division of cardiothoracic surgery at the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville, as well as director of aortic surgery at UF Health Jacksonville.

Why choose a Ross procedure for heart surgery?

The Ross procedure, also known as a pulmonary autograft, is an aortic valve repair to replace a nonfunctioning aortic valve with the patient’s own pulmonary valve. A healthy donor valve then replaces the original pulmonary valve. People who undergo a successful Ross procedure maintain a quality of life similar to people without heart disease. There are often limited or no restrictions on physical activity. Patients are also far less likely to experience heart failure.

Ross procedure benefits:

  • Better size fitting as it comes from your body
  • Decreased chance of your body rejecting the valve
  • Decreased need for blood thinners or anticoagulants
  • Easier blood flow regulation
  • Less chance of postoperative deterioration of the valve from calcification (compared to using a valve from an animal)

Who qualifies for Ross procedure surgery?

The ideal candidate for the Ross procedure is typically under 60 years of age, has aortic valve disease requiring surgical replacement, and is in good overall health without major complications, such as significant liver, kidney, or lung disease.

Why choose UF Health Jacksonville for Ross procedure surgery?

Our cardiothoracic surgeons are at the forefront of heart, lung, and chest surgery, and specialize in complicated, high-risk surgical procedures, including the Ross procedure. The division has been recognized for excellence in bypass procedures and is committed to providing all patients with the best possible outcomes. They also participate in numerous national and international clinical trials and offer multiple accredited physician training programs.

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