Lessons from the first patient to undergo full aortic root replacement using a homograft: a 29-year follow-up

Homograft aortic valve replacement (AVR) has been shown to have many advantages over other forms of AVR. The technique of full aortic root replacement, introduced, at least in part, the normal native aortic by us in 1975 has the potential to reproduce, valve behavior. There is, however, a debate about the early and long-term results of this operation, particularly in relation to overall valve performance, aortic root dilatation and calcification, left ventricular function, fate of coronary anastomoses, sensitization against allograft, and any other complications.Although we report about a single patient, this study represents the longest follow-up for this operation, which is of historical value and could provide some valuable insights.