VENTRICULAR ANEURYSMECTOMY A 25-YEAR EXPERIENCE

Objective This study determined predictors of operative survival and improved long-term outcomes in patients undergoing ventricular aneurysmectomy. Summary Background Data Since the first successful repair of ventricular aneurysm in 1958, refined technique and improvement in perioperative care have been introduced to lower morbidity and mortality. Methods The authors reviewed their institutional experience from 1968 through 1993 in treating 523 patients who underwent ventricular aneurysmectomy. Results Overall operative mortality was 8% and overall median survival was 128 months. Contractility grade, age, and yea, of operation were predictors of operative mortality and of improved long term survival. Type oi aneurysm repair was not a strong predictor of operative mortality or improved long-term survival. Conclusions Ventricular aneurysmectomy can be performed safely using one of a number of established techniques, although operative mortality and long-term survival may not depend on the techniques used.