Two surgical techniques for replacing heart valves in people with small aortic roots

Plain-English translation of NCT07368322 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated January 2026 · Translation generated August 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial compares two different surgical techniques for people who need their aortic valve (a valve in the heart) replaced but have a smaller-than-average aortic root. The newer 'Y incision' technique can allow doctors to place larger replacement valves than traditional methods, which might lead to better heart function after surgery. Researchers want to see whether this newer approach is safer and works better long-term compared to the standard surgical methods.

When people with small aortic roots receive a standard valve replacement, the new valve can be too large relative to the space available, causing problems with heart function and long-term survival. This trial exists to test whether a newer surgical technique solves this problem better than traditional approaches, potentially improving outcomes for patients who face this challenging situation.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 80 years old
you have been diagnosed with aortic valve disease that requires surgery
you have a small aortic root where a standard valve replacement would not fit well enough
your heart doctor has determined you are healthy enough for heart surgery
you are willing to attend follow-up visits and follow the study plan

You likely don't qualify if…

you have had heart surgery before
you have severe lung disease or other serious health conditions that prevent exercise testing
you have very weak heart function (ejection fraction less than 30%)
you have active heart infection (endocarditis)
you have leg problems or other medical conditions that prevent you from exercising on a stationary bike

What participation looks like

If you join this trial, you will be randomly assigned to receive either the newer 'Y incision' surgical technique or the standard surgical technique for aortic valve replacement. Both are real surgical approaches—not experimental drugs or devices—so you will have actual heart surgery. You will then have follow-up visits where doctors will check how well your new valve is working, perform exercise testing on a stationary bike to measure your heart function, and monitor you for any complications over time.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 9, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

Israel

Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa