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Heart transplantation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome: Modified technique for reducing circulatory arrest time

  • L. A. Vricella
  • , A. J. Razzouk
  • , M. Del Rio
  • , S. R. Gundry
  • , L. L. Bailey

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: The surgical technique of heart transplantation as therapy in infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome was first reported over a decade ago. Since that time, incremental refinements have evolved that both facilitate the operation and potentially reduce the perceived neurologic hazards associated with the use of hypothermic circulatory arrest. Methods: Minor technical adjustments have permitted infant heart transplantation to be accomplished with relative ease while markedly limiting the need for complete circulatory arrest. Low-flow hypothermic systemic perfusion is used for atrial implantation, reserving circulatory arrest for arch reconstruction only. This is accomplished by use of an active (pump) sucker for venous return. Result: Mean circulatory arrest time with the current technique has been 26 minutes. Conclusion: Minor technical refinements have resulted in a marked reduction in hypothermic circulatory arrest time during infant heart transplantation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1167-1171
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Heart and Lung Transplantation
Volume17
Issue number12
StatePublished - 1998

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Surgery
  • Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Transplantation

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