Direct anastomosis of pulmonary artery-to-right ventricular outflow for correction of tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia

Alternative techniques of right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction for surgical repair of truncus arteriosus

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes and feasibility of different techniques of reconstruction of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in surgical repair of truncus arteriosus.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients with truncus arteriosus who underwent successful surgical repair in our centre between 1994 and 2017. We analysed late results according to the type of RVOT repair.

RESULTS

We collected data from 29 survivors after truncus arteriosus repair. Six (20%) of them were affected by DiGeorge syndrome. The RVOT reconstruction was achieved using a valved conduit in 58.6%, while a direct right ventricle-pulmonary artery (RV-PA) anastomosis, with or without the interposition of the left atrial appendage, was performed in the remaining. At a median follow-up time of 7.9 years (interquartile range 1.8-13.1), 6 patients (3 affected by DiGeorge syndrome) died. Between the 2 groups, there were no differences in terms of the late mortality and onset of adverse events. However, the use of a conduit seemed more prone to reintervention and onset of adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Different RVOT reconstruction techniques are safe and have similar late outcomes. However, use of a direct RV-PA anastomosis and left atrial appendage interposition may reduce the need for reoperation in the long term.

Intermediate Results of the Double-Switch Operations for Atrioventricular Discordance

BACKGROUND

Since 1987, anatomic biventricular repair using the double-switch operations has been our principal choice for patients with atrioventricular discordance. These alternative procedures have the theoretical advantage of using the anatomic left ventricle to support the systemic circulation.

METHODS

A total of 45 patients underwent the double-switch operation. Their ages ranged from 6 months to 21 years. Associated malformations included pulmonary atresia in 27, pulmonary stenosis in 11, and Ebstein's malformation in 5. An atrial switch plus an arterial switch procedure was performed in 7, and an atrial switch plus a Rastelli-type ventriculoarterial switch procedure in 38. Follow-up ranged from 6 months to 15 years.

RESULTS

Early mortality was 8.9% (n = 4). In the latter half of the series (n = 23, since 1994), there was no early death. Six patients died late. Actuarial survival at 5 and 10 years was 83.6% and 77.6%, respectively. Six patients required conduit replacement, and 2 required revision of an intraatrial baffle for pulmonary venous channel obstruction and infection, respectively. Freedom from reoperation was 95.3% at 5 years and 76.2% at 10 years. Freedom from arrhythmia was 88.8% at 5 years and 78.4% at 10 years. The systemic ventricular ejection fraction was 0.568 +/- 0.103 at 1 year (n = 39), 0.555 +/- 0.105 at 5 years (n = 17), and 0.539 +/- 0.098 at 10 years (n = 12).

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical results of the double-switch operations have been improving. Intermediate follow-up suggests that these alternative procedures are a reasonable option for patients with atrioventricular discordance.

Left atrial appendage insertion for right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The left atrial appendage (LAA) may serve as an alternative to the pulmonary arterial wall for right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) reconstruction without an extracardiac conduit.

METHODS

Five consecutive patients with pulmonary atresia or severe stenosis underwent corrective (n = 4) or palliative (n = 1) RVOT reconstruction using an LAA insertion. Surgery was performed to treat tetralogy of Fallot, double-outlet right ventricle, or transposition of the great arteries. By inserting the LAA into the obstructed portion, the width of the posterior wall of the RVOT was 20 mm or more. The anterior half of the RVOT was then augmented with pericardial patch.

RESULTS

There were no early or late postoperative deaths, and no major complications (arrhythmias, thrombo-embolic episodes, infective endocarditis, need for reoperation). The postrepair systolic right ventricular-to-systemic arterial pressure ratio was 0.61 +/- 0.26. Color Doppler flow mapping revealed that the reconstructed RVOT was nonobstructive and had nonturbulent flow. No thrombus or pseudoneointimal formation was observed in the RVOT.

CONCLUSIONS

LAA insertion in the RVOT is an effective alternative to, or adjunct of, direct anastomosis. It offers several advantages, including fewer early and midterm complications and avoiding the use of an extracardiac conduit.