Small and borderline left ventricular outflow tract – a perplexing maladie

Abstract

The left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) comprises of the subvalvular area, the aortic valve, and the supravalvular region. Obstructive lesion of LVOT is a spectrum with varying levels and degree of obstruction with or without associated hypoplasia of the left ventricle. Decision-making in small and borderline LVOT can be challenging. Imaging modalities such as echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging and scores based on imaging aid in the decision making in truly borderline cases. Newer treatment strategies like staged left ventricular rehabilitation and hybrid procedure have come to the fore in the past decade or so. Although these do not address small LVOT per se, they delay the decision-making to a more appropriate age. The goal of management in these cases is to achieve a biventricular repair whenever feasible. Several surgical techniques could be employed to achieve this goal. However, it is important to be cognizant of the fact that an overzealous approach to achieve a biventricular repair might be counterproductive. A univentricular palliation could be a safer alternative; especially considering the possibility of a future transplant candidacy.