Over 30 years ago, medical professionals in Curitiba pioneered a heart valve replacement surgery known as the Ross procedure, which significantly reduces the risk of complications for patients with cardiac issues. This surgical technique has since been replicated across Brazil, available under the public health system (SUS), and has marked a notable advancement in Brazilian medical history. The Ross procedure involves replacing a diseased aortic valve with the patient's own pulmonary valve, providing a more effective solution for patients with damaged heart valves.

The first operation of this type occurred in Brazil in 1995, involving the substitution of the ailing aortic valve with the healthier pulmonary valve. This approach takes advantage of the fact that these valves are naturally suited to function in their respective roles. The removed pulmonary valve is then replaced with a structure from human donors, making it a complex but vital procedure tailored to patients suffering from various heart conditions, whether genetic or acquired.

The importance of the Ross procedure extends beyond its technical nuances; it offers a less risky option to patients who would otherwise face significant complications from traditional valve replacement surgeries. As this technique continues to evolve and be taught in medical centers throughout Brazil, it serves as a testament to the advancements in cardiac care and the growing accessibility of such sophisticated surgeries to Brazilian patients.