Hemodynamic correction of univentricular congenital heart diseases: the role of additional sources of pulmonary blood flow

Analysis of the impact of additional sources of pulmonary blood flow on the outcomes of hemodynamic correction of univentricular congenital heart disease is presented. From 2003 to 2010 31 patients received a bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt (BCPS) with/without preservation of additional pulmonary blood flow sources. The latter were preserved in 18 patients (1st group) and eliminated in 13 patients (2nd group). Later on all patients had Fontan procedure. Our results showed no significant impact of additional pulmonary blood flow sources on the system ventricle function and systemic AV valve regurgitation. Preservation of adequate additional pulmonary blood flow during BCPS promotes pulmonary arterial growth and increases the degree of freedom from operative intervention, while optimizing hemodynamic features of Fontan-borderline patients.