[Cavo-pulmonary anastomosis in tricuspid malformations: outcome of 10 operated cases]

Certain congenital malformations affecting the rightsided cavities of the heart and accompanied by a diminished pulmonary blood flow can be improved by an end-to-side anastomosis between the right pulmonary artery and the superior vena cava. Nine out of the 10 patients who underwent the operation survived. The results have been very impressive in six patients with tricuspid atresia who were critically ill. The anoxemic episodes ceased completely and cyanosis has disappeared. Three cases of Ebstein's anomaly have also been improved. This clinical study has given us the opportunity to review the physiological consequences of the anastomosis, its complications and its surgical indications. We believe that this type of shunt is especially indicated in cases of tricuspid atresia, in which only a palliative form of surgery can be performed.