Aneurysmal dilatation of the aortic sinuses of Valsalva — beyond Marfan syndrome : a single centre experience and review of the literature

Abstract

Aneurysmal dilatation of the aortic sinuses of Valsalva has been most extensively documented in the setting of aortopathies, particularly Marfan syndrome. On the other hand, there is limited data in the literature about congenital sinus of Valsalva aneurysms outside this context. For the purpose of this review, we carried out a literature search on aneurysmal dilatation of the sinuses of Valsalva in Marfan syndrome, and compared this with congenital sinus of Valsalva aneurysms, also including data from a case series from our institution. In conclusion, there are differences in management of aortic dilatation in Marfan syndrome and congenital sinus of Valsalva aneurysms. Though less well-recognised, congenital aneurysms are often associated with significant morbidity and mortality and timely intervention is necessary.