What is aortic root replacement surgery?

Aortic root replacement surgery is a medical procedure that involves removing parts of the aorta and aortic valve and replacing them with an artificial tube and a mechanical or biological valve respectively, notes Mayo Clinic. Patients who get the mechanical valve use anticoagulant medications to prevent blood clotting.

Doctors recommend aortic root replacement surgery for patients suffering from an aortic aneurysm, which occurs due to a swelling in the aorta, explains Mid-Atlantic Surgical Associates. Patients suffering from Marfan syndrome usually have a higher risk of developing an aortic aneurysm. If an aneurysm develops, patients require emergency surgery to prevent it from rupturing.