The present study is aimed at showing the survival curve throughout eleven years of follow-up, after surgical treatment using semi-rigid bovine pericardial prosthesis in left ventricular aneurysm. From July, 1988 to November, 1998, 56 standardized left ventricular repair surgeries using semi-rigid bovine pericardial prostheses were carried out, and the prostheses were chosen according to established measurements. The diameter ranged from 23 to 31 mm, and a measurer specific for surgical procedures was used. There were 39 men and 17 women, ranging in age from 35 to 73 years (mean 56.57). Ejection fraction was evaluated by Dodge/Kennedy's paired test and segmental contractility by the "definition of the 100 shortening cords" by ventriculography. All of the patients were followed up for a period of up to 11 years. There were two deaths, one (0.55%) hospitalized patient and 1 (0.55%) late death. Mean ejection fraction increased from 0.37 to 0.57 and the anteroapical segment (subgroup of patients) had the most significant improvement. Death-free survival rate at the end of the follow-up period was 95.47% (confidence interval 95%: 92.27% to 98.67%). In face of the results obtained, we believe the use of semi-rigid bovine pericardial prosthesis for left ventricular geometric repair improves ventricular function and long-term survival.
Heart ventricle; Heart ventricle; Prostheses and implants; Coronary aneurysm; Pericardium; Follow-up studies
