The Ross procedure is done primarily to correct a condition called Aortic Valve Stenosis or Regurgitations. Stenosis of that valve is a narrowing or constriction that makes it difficult for the heart to pump the blood to the body.
Aortic stenosis occurs due to improper formation of the valve.
Sometimes the stenosis is severe and symptoms may occur very early in life. Otherwise, children with aortic stenosis may have few or no symptoms. In some, they may complain of transient chest pain, unusual tiring, exercise intolerance, exertional dyspnea or dizziness. The need for and timing of surgery is dependent on the severity of the stenosis. The Ross procedure was first prepared and performed by Dr. Donald Ross of London in 1967.