The Ross procedure in middle-aged adults is the focus of a presentation at SCTS 2026 by Conal Austin, now available to view on CTSNet.
It includes discussion on personalised external aortic root support, including graft design, sizing, and how the technique has developed over time.
The session focuses on the Ross procedure, with reference to recent EACTS guidance and how different surgical approaches are considered in practice.

The presentation outlines how approaches are becoming more defined in clinical use, with focus on standardisation, reproducibility, and patient-specific planning. It also examines how the Ross procedure in middle-aged adults is being applied in current surgical practice.
Key points from the presentation
- Personalised external aortic root support discussed alongside other reinforcement strategies referenced in recent EACTS guidance
- Focus on a compliant, patient-specific design and how graft sizing has evolved over time
- Technique described as increasingly standardised and reproducible in clinical practice
- Consideration of surgical experience and centre volume in relation to outcomes
Key moments from the presentation
- 25:00 — EACTS guidance and reinforcement strategies
- 26:30 — introduction of external support approach
- 27:30–29:30 — graft design, sizing, and development
- 36:45 — standardisation and clinical application
- 40:00 — conclusions on the Ross procedure with external aortic root support
Watch the full presentation here:
SCTS 2026 | The Ross Procedure, Aortic Infections, and the Branch-First Technique | CTSNet


