Early hemodynamics and clinical results of the Sorin Freedom Solo Valve

Aims: To report on clinical and early hemodynamic results of the new Freedom Solo valve™ (Sorin Group, Saluggia, Italy). Methods: From June 2004 to August 2006 129 patients underwent aortic valve replacement using a supraannular implantation technique with a single running suture line of polypropylene 4–0 in the sinuses of valsalva. Echocardiography was performed to observe gradients and regurgitation at discharge and after 1 year. Results: Mean age was 75.8±7.2 years, 53 patients were male. Isolated aortic valve replacement was performed in 75 patients; concomittant procedures covered CABG, mitral procedures, subvalvular myectomy and atrial ablations. Expected mortality as calculated by Logistic EuroSCORE was 13.2±11.9, observed mortality was 3.9% due to non valve related reasons. Valve size was 26.4±2.1mm, crossclamp time 38.4±6.4 minutes in isolated primary valve replacement. Overall mean gradient was 8.2±4.6mmHg at discharge and 7.7±4.5mmHg at 1 year follow up (n.s.). There were no paravalvular leakages or more than trace transvalular regurgitation. Valve Size (mm) n Ejection fraction (%) Peak gradient (mmHg) Mean gradient (mmHg) 23 20 56.0±11.8 23.1±9.2 12.6±5.2 25 38 58.0±10.5 16.3±8.6 8.8±4.8 27 34 53.5±10.6 12.7±4.9 7.0±3.7 29 37 53.9±14.4 13.9±5.9 7.4±3.2 Conclusion: The supraannular implantation technique of the new Freedom Solo stentless valve is safe and reliable using a single suture line. The valve provides excellent early hemodynamics without paravalvular leakages.