Aortic insufficiency after implant of an intraluminal ascending aortic graft prosthesis

A case is presented in which an intraluminal aortic graft prosthesis (ILAP) was implanted in the ascending position for acute dissection. Although the patient had a perfectly competent aortic valve at the time of the implant, he developed severe aortic insufficiency, angina, and arrhythmia within 7 months. The symptoms disappeared after the prosthetic device was removed and replaced by a composite graft. The use of ILAP in the ascending aortic position in cases with dilated aortic root is not recommended since it seems to cause further dilatation and weakening, leading to aortic valve insufficiency.