The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
Aortic root surgery
AORTIC ANEURYSM SURGERY
If you experience heart related problems that require aortic root surgery, our cardiac experts can help to treat you
What is aortic root surgery?
Aortic root surgery is a procedure to treat and/or prevent dilation or enlargement of the aorta (aneurysm).
The aortic root connects the aorta and the heart. It contains coronary arteries and the aortic valve. Surgery is often carried out if the aneurysm reaches around 5.5cm in diameter.
For patients with conditions such as Marfan syndrome, surgery is required if the aneurysm is even smaller in size.
Aortic root surgery is carried out under general anesthetic. Your cardiac surgeon will firstly set aside your aortic valve and remove the aneurysm (enlarged area) on your aortic root. A synthetic tube (graft) will then be inserted as a replacement for this section of the root.
If you're undergoing an aortic valve repair, your aortic valve will be reintroduced into the tube. This is beneficial for young people, as they may not need to take anticoagulant medication for the rest of their lives. If replacement surgery is required, a tissue or mechanical valve will be used.
If you're undergoing an aortic valve repair, your aortic valve will be reintroduced into the tube. This is beneficial for young people, as they may not need to take anticoagulant medication for the rest of their lives. If replacement surgery is required, a tissue or mechanical valve will be used.
Your consultant will explain how to prepare for aortic root surgery, answering any questions you might have. They will advise you on what to wear to the hospital, as well as food and drink intake 24 hours before the food procedure.
You will likely have an echocardiogram, which is a type of ultrasound scan that assesses your heart and the condition of your valves and vessels. You may also have a cardiac MRI scan and CT scans. These produce in depth images of your heart for your consultant.
You will likely have an echocardiogram, which is a type of ultrasound scan that assesses your heart and the condition of your valves and vessels. You may also have a cardiac MRI scan and CT scans. These produce in depth images of your heart for your consultant.
Similar to open heart surgery, a gradual recuperation period is normal. However, provided you have no other serious medical conditions, you should experience a smooth recovery process. Regular check-ups with your cardiologist are recommended to monitor the valve.
In order to prevent clotting, you may have to take anticoagulant medication for an extended period of time.
In order to prevent clotting, you may have to take anticoagulant medication for an extended period of time.
Our Aortic root surgery locations
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.