A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position

作者： Arben Dedja*1, Claudia Cattapan*1, Giovanni Di Salvo2, Martina Avesani2, Jolanda Sabatino2, Alvise Guariento1,3, Vladimiro Vida1 1Pediatric and Congenital Cardiac Surgery Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health,University of Padua, 2Pediatric Cardiology Unit, Departments of Women’s and Children’s Health,University of Padua, 3Labatt Family Heart Centre, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children,University of Toronto

简介：

Overview

This study establishes a murine model for pulmonary root implantation into the descending aorta, simulating the Ross procedure. This model allows for medium to long-term evaluation of pulmonary autograft remodeling in a systemic position, aiding in the development of therapeutic strategies.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Cardiovascular surgery
• Congenital heart disease
• Animal models

Background

• Congenital aortic stenosis is a common congenital heart defect.
• The Ross operation involves transferring the pulmonary autograft to the aortic position.
• This procedure has growth potential but is limited by risks such as graft dilatation.
• Establishing a rodent model helps evaluate the adaptation of the pulmonary graft.

Purpose of Study

• To create a rodent model for evaluating pulmonary valve graft adaptation.
• To assess the medium/long-term outcomes of pulmonary autograft remodeling.
• To provide insights for improving therapeutic strategies in congenital heart disease.

Methods Used

• Induction of anesthesia and surgical preparation of the animal.
• Harvesting of the pulmonary graft and implantation into the abdominal aorta.
• Monitoring of the animals post-surgery with serial ultrasound studies.
• Evaluation of graft diameter and blood flow parameters over time.

Main Results

• No fatal events occurred during the operation; overall survival rate was 91% at two months.
• Significant increase in pulmonary graft diameter was observed within the first week.
• Median body weight of animals stabilized after initial weight loss.
• Measurements indicated successful adaptation of the pulmonary graft in the systemic position.

Conclusions

• The murine model effectively simulates the Ross procedure.
• Findings support the potential for pulmonary autograft adaptation in systemic circulation.
• This model can aid in developing strategies to enhance outcomes in congenital heart surgery.

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