Brom Aortoplasty for Supravalvular Aortic Stenosis

Background: Controversy remains regarding the optimal surgical approach for children with supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS). Methods: Since 1997 we have used Brom three-patch aortoplasty for patients with SVAS. We prefer computed tomography (CT) imaging for preoperative evaluation rather than cardiac catheterization as it avoids the well-known morbidity of general anesthesia. The purpose of this study was to present our intermediate-term results of this strategy. Results: Twenty consecutive patients with SVAS were treated with Brom aortoplasty. Mean age was 3.7 ± 5.9 years (median, 1.5 years). Twelve patients had Williams syndrome. Ten patients had preoperative advanced medical imaging (seven CT, three magnetic resonance imaging) and did not have cardiac catheterization. Mean times for cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp were 172 ± 29 minutes and 110 ± 21 minutes, respectively. Ten patients had simultaneous pulmonary artery stenosis patching. Median length of stay was seven days. There was no operative or late mortality. Mean follow-up was 6 ± 5 years. There were no reoperations on the aortic root. Fifteen patients had mild or less aortic insufficiency (AI) and two had moderate AI. One patient who had infant balloon dilation of the aortic valve and postoperative subacute bacterial endocarditis had moderate-to-severe AI and aortic stenosis (AS). One patient had moderate residual SVAS; all others had no AS. No patients had late coronary insufficiency. Conclusion: Brom aortoplasty promotes restoration of normal aortic root geometry and relief of coronary ostial stenosis, which is important in preventing myocardial ischemia. Computed tomography imaging is our preferred diagnostic modality. Intermediate-term outcomes are excellent with no recurrent SVAS, coronary events, or reoperations on the aortic valve.