The Bentall procedure is a complex surgical operation used to treat severe diseases affecting the aortic valve and the ascending aorta, including conditions like aortic aneurysms and aortic regurgitation. Named after the British surgeon Sir Edward Bentall, this procedure involves the replacement of the aortic valve and the ascending aorta with a prosthetic valve and conduit. The operation addresses both the damaged valve and the dilated or weakened section of the aorta, which can be at risk of rupture or further complications if left untreated. The need for the Bentall procedure arises from conditions such as aortic aneurysm, where the aorta becomes enlarged and weakened, or aortic regurgitation, where the valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the heart. These issues can lead to significant cardiovascular complications, including heart failure or rupture of the aorta, which is life-threatening. Symptoms that may necessitate the Bentall procedure include severe chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and signs of heart failure, such as swelling in the legs and fluid accumulation in the lungs. These symptoms occur because the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently due to the compromised valve and aorta. The Bentall procedure aims to restore normal blood flow and prevent life-threatening complications by replacing both the aortic valve and the ascending aorta with a synthetic graft and valve. While the procedure is highly effective in managing these conditions, it requires careful monitoring and follow-up to manage potential risks, such as infection, bleeding, or valve-related complications.
