Ventricular endoaneurysmorrhaphy: results of an improved method of repair.

We recently repaired 4 large ventricular aneurysms using a new technique that restores normal shape, contour, and volume to the ventricle. An elliptical woven Dacron patch graft is fashioned to replace the diseased area in the ventricular cavity, and to exclude the nonfunctioning fibrous area. In all patients, left ventricular function improved postoperatively in each variable measured by single and biplane computer analysis. There was a 2-fold or greater increase in ejection fraction. This technique restores the internal contour and preserves the surface anatomy of the ventricle, and permits revascularization of the anterior descending or other coronary arteries when indicated.