What is systemic to pulmonary shunt procedure?
The systemic to pulmonary shunt procedure is a palliative (temporary) procedure performed in children who are not getting enough blood to the lungs to be oxygenated (blue babies). The typical diagnosis associated with this procedure used to be tetralogy of Fallot, although now most patients with tetralogy of Fallot undergo complete correction early in infancy. Currently the shunt procedure is used in more complex defects such as tricuspid atresia.
Preparing for the procedure
Prior to cardiac surgery, the heart defect will be diagnosed with an EKG, a chest X-ray and an echocardiogram. Some children require cardiac catheterization to collect more information about the heart. All of this helps the staff prepare for the child's care after surgery. Before surgery, blood tests are conducted to be sure that there is no infection and no problem with clotting, and that normal electrolyte levels are in the blood. A blood test to determine the blood type and compatibility will be performed so blood will be available for the surgery.
During the procedure
During this procedure, which is performed under general anesthesia, special monitoring lines are placed. The chest is entered with an incision between the ribs. A small, artificial graft is placed between one of the systemic arteries and the pulmonary artery to divert blood into the lungs. This can be done in either the right or left chest depending on the circumstances. A small chest tube is then placed for drainage, and the chest is closed.
After the procedure
The child will need several days to recover from general anesthesia and surgery. The main goals during this time will be to return the child to normalcy: breathing without the help of a tube, drinking, eating, and controlling any pain from surgery.
Click here for recovery guidelines after discharge for congenital heart defect repair at the Inova Heart Center.