Aortic valve surgery in octogenarians: Risk factors and long-term impact

Abstract Background and objectives To understand the risk factors and long-term impact and results of aortic valve surgery in patients over age 80. Patients and methods We consecutively evaluated 255 octogenarians who were operated on between 2000 and 2013 and referred for aortic valve disease (isolated or combined with coronary artery disease), which, even when associated with other diseases, was the primary cause of the patient's functional limitation. Results The mortality rate decreased from 14.08% (2000–2004) to 7.7% (isolated valve surgery, 4.4%; with coronary bypass, 3.3%) (2010–2013). The independent risk factors associated with mortality were urgent surgery, combined procedures, peripheral vascular disease, a postsurgery hematocrit level Conclusions The morbidity and mortality of aortic valve surgery for patients over age 80 has decreased in recent years, although it remains higher when valve surgery is combined with coronary surgery. The presence of preoperative left ventricular dysfunction decreases long-term survival.