Central Shunt Research Articles

Comparative Analysis of Modified BT Shunt and Central Shunt in Pediatric Patients.

Cyanotic congenital heart diseases constitute 40-45% of all congenital heart diseases. In patients who are not suitable for primary repair, modified BT (MBT) shunt and central shunt (CS) procedures are still frequently used. This study included 62 pediatric patients who underwent MBT shunt or CS via median sternotomy. Patients' demographic, echocardiographic, operative, and postoperative data were collected retrospectively. The patients were classified as single ventricle and bi-ventricle according to their cardiac anatomy, and the presence of prematurity and heterotaxy was noted. Procedure details of the patients who underwent endovascular intervention prior to the surgery were investigated, and operation data were accessed from the surgery notes. Data regarding postoperative follow-ups were obtained and comparatively analyzed. Of the total 62 patients, 32 (51.6%) were newborns and 16 (25.8%) had a body weight < 3 kg. MBT shunt was applied to 48 patients (77.4%), while CS was applied to 14 patients (22.6%). There was no significant difference between the two surgical procedures in terms of requirement for urgent shunt or cardiopulmonary bypass, additional simultaneous surgical intervention, need for high postoperative inotropes, and in-hospital mortality (P>0.05). The rate of congestive heart failure in patients with in-hospital mortality was determined as 66.7% and it was significantly higher than in patients without heart failure (P<0.001). MBT shunt and CS are still frequently used in cyanotic patients. The use of small-diameter shunts, particularly when centrally located, can prevent the onset of congestive heart failure and lower mortality.

Pseudosubarachnoid hemorrhage sign in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) constitutes a common neurosurgical emergency. Non-contrast computerized tomography (NCCT) head has very high specificity and sensitivity in detecting SAH. However, in certain conditions, the computed tomography (CT) may be falsely positive, termed as pseudo-SAH. We hereby report a rare case of pseudo-SAH in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot and discuss the possible etiopathogenesis and the pertinent literature. We present here a case of a 15-year-old male patient, who was diagnosed with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) physiology. He presented to the cardiology outpatient clinic with complaints of dyspnea on exertion, headache, and drowsiness. The NCCT head revealed diffuse hyperdensity in the basal cisterns and sulcal spaces, which were suggestive of diffuse SAH. However, in the setting of negative CT and magnetic resonance angiography along with high hematocrit levels (84%), diagnosis of pseudo-SAH was considered. The patient was appropriately managed with beta-blockers, intravenous fluids, and serial phlebotomies. The patient underwent a palliative shunt connecting the ascending aorta to the main pulmonary artery (central shunt), following which his saturation improved, and hematocrit decreased (40%) leading to significant symptomatic improvement. Knowledge of pseudo-SAH signs is essential for the treating physician and plays an important part in the management of this patient population.

Transcatheter Arterial Embolization with Bleomycin-Lipiodol of Hepatic Hemangiomas: Safety, Efficacy and Predictors of Response.

To evaluate the safety, efficacy and predictors of response of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) to treat hepatic hemangiomas (HHs). A retrospective analysis was conducted of consecutive HH patients who received TAE with bleomycin-Lipiodol emulsion and gelatin sponge particles at three institutions from January 2014 to January 2021. TAE effectiveness was defined as more than 50% reduction of tumor volume. The effectiveness, safety, and CT changes of hemangiomas after TAE were assessed. Factors affecting TAE efficacy on tumor size were analyzed with logistic regression analysis. A total of 102 patients with 109 HHs were included. After treatment, both the tumor diameter and volume were significantly reduced from 8.5 ± 3.9 to 5.9 ± 3.8cm (P < 0.001) and 412.6 ± 742.3cm3 to 102.0 ± 232.7cm3 (P < 0.001), respectively. TAE effectiveness was achieved in 80.7% (88/109) of hemangiomas, which was characterized by progressive reduction in tumor volume over time with Lipiodol retention. Atypical enhancement pattern (tiny enhancing dots in the hepatic arterial and portal venous phase) (p = 0.001) and central arterioportal shunt (APS) (p = 0.002) associated with the tumor were independent predictors of TAE ineffectiveness. Postembolization syndrome and transient increase in liver enzymes were common without severe complications and death. TAE was safe and effective in reducing HH size. Lesion enhancement pattern and APS type were associated with TAE efficacy on tumor shrinkage. Level 3, non-controlled retrospective cohort study.

Pattern of organisms causing central nervous system shunt related infections and their antibiotic susceptibility profile in a tertiary care setup

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) shunt-associated infections pose a significant threat, necessitating an in-depth understanding of the frequency and antimicrobial sensitivity patterns of the implicated pathogens. This research aimed to ascertain the frequency and antimicrobial sensitivity patterns of pathogens isolated from central nervous system shunt associated infections. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from April to September 2020 at the Neurosurgical department of Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, and the Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. 95 cerebrospinal fluid samples obtained through direct aspiration. The study employed standard microbiological techniques for pathogen isolation, identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing following CLSI guidelines 2019. Results: Pathogens isolated from central nervous system shunt associated infections included Staphylococcus spp. (29.47%), Escherichia coli (16.84%), Acinetobacter baumannii (13.68%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (10.53%), Pseudomonas spp. (8.42%), Enterococcus spp. (7.37%), Morganella morganii, Enterobacter cloacae, and Candida spp. (2.11% each), Stenotrophomonas maltophila (1.05%), and mixed infections. Among Gram-negative pathogens, 95% were susceptible to Polymixin B, 93% to Meropenem, and 55% to Cefepime. All Gram-positive organisms were sensitive to Vancomycin and Linezolid (100%). Conclusion: Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were prevalent Gram-negative rods in infections related to CNS shunts, with Staphylococcus spp. following. Gram-negative bacteria exhibited sensitivity to Polymixin B, Meropenem, and Cefepime, while Gram-positive organisms were responsive to Vancomycin and Linezolid. The significant occurrence of Gram-negative rods emphasizes their consideration in empirical antimicrobial therapy recommendations for minimizing death and disability. Keywords: Shunt-associated infections of central nervous system, Antibiotic sensitivity, Gram Negative Rods, Meropenem

T-Remodeling of the Pulmonary Artery Bifurcation for Pulmonary Artery Origin Stenosis.

Various surgical techniques are utilized for reconstructing hypoplastic pulmonary arteries (PAs) in patients with conotruncal anomalies and at times, may be susceptible to restenosis and reoperation. We reviewed our experience with a simple technique of T-shaped remodeling of the PA bifurcation. Between 2005 and 2019, 31 patients underwent T-remodeling of central PAs by a single cardiac surgeon. The PA bifurcation was opened cranially, and the opening was augmented with an oval-shaped patch effectively transforming the V-shaped bifurcation into a T-shaped bifurcation. Both origins of the PAs were enlarged, even in the instance of single PA origin stenosis. Median age at time of T-remodeling was 17 months (range: 7 weeks to 14 years). The following cardiac morphologies were observed: tetralogy of Fallot (n = 12, 39%), pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect (VSD) and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (n = 8, 26%), truncus arteriosus (n = 6, 19%), pulmonary atresia with VSD (n = 3, 9.7%), and transposition of the great arteries (n = 2, 6.5%). Thirteen patients (42%) had previous central shunt, and eight patients (26%) had previous modified Blalock-Taussig shunt. There were no operative mortalities. Immediately after T-remodeling, echocardiographic estimates of right ventricle to PA gradient decreased from 42 [interquartile range 28-58] mm Hg to 20 [12-36] mm Hg (P = .03). Freedom from reoperation on the PA bifurcation for the entire cohort was 100% at one year, 88% (95% CI 68%-96%) at five years and 82% (57%-93%) at ten years. T-remodeling for PA origin stenosis is a safe procedure with excellent freedom from reoperation that is easily reproducible and applicable to patients with all cardiac morphologies.

The Role of Echocardiography and Cardiac Computed Tomography in Diagnosis of Infective Endocarditis.

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a rare disease with a high mortality rate and rising incidence, requiring timely and precise diagnosis in order to choose appropriate therapy. Imaging of morphologic lesions is an integrative part of diagnosis. Artifacts and the patient's habitus make echocardiography difficult to visualize advanced-form IE. Cardiac computed tomography (CCT) constantly shows an additive diagnostic value due to high resolution of cardiac anatomy. Conjecturally, joint application of both diagnostic tests improves overall sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing IE. Patients with definite IE underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), and CCT. We analyzed valvular and paravalvular IE lesions in all three imaging methods and compared them to surgical or autopsy findings. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, and positive and negative predictive value of both imaging tests individually and jointly used. We examined 78 patients, male to female ratio 2:1, mean age 52.29 ± 16.62. We analyzed 85 valves, 70 native valves, 13 prosthetic valves, and 2 corrected valves due to Ozaki procedure, along with a central shunt and 4 pacemaker leads. As a single test, the sensitivity and specificity of CCT, TTE, and TEE for valvular lesions were 91.6/20%, 65.5/57.9%, and 60/84%, and paravalvular lesions were 100/0%, 46/10.5%, and 14.7/100%. When combined together, sensitivity and specificity for valvular lesions rose to 96.6/0% and paravalvular lesions to 100/0%. We also analyzed the diagnostic performance for each test in single and mutual application, per specific IE lesion. In the individual application, CCT in comparison to TTE and TEE shows better diagnostic performance in detection of valvular and paravalvular lesions. In joint application, there is a statistically significant difference in performance compared to their single use, especially in prosthetic valves and invasive forms of IE native valves.

Efficacy and outcomes of shunt surgery for secondary hydrocephalus

Records of secondary hydrocephalus patients undergoing shunt surgery in the Department of Neurosurgery of Peking Union Medical College Hospital from September 2012 to April 2022 and their clinical characteristics and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. Among 121 patients who received first time shunt placement, the most common causes of secondary hydrocephalus were brain hemorrhage (55, 45.5%) and trauma (35, 28.9%). Cognition decline (106, 87.6%), abnormal gait (50, 41.3%) and incontinence (40, 33.1%) were the most prevalent manifestations. Postoperative central nervous system infection (4, 3.3%), shunt obstruction (3, 2.5%) and subdural hematoma/effusion (4, 3.3%) were the most frequent neurological complications. Overall incidence of postoperative complications was 9% (11 cases) in the current cohort. And 50.5% (54/107) of the patients receiving shunting achieved a Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) score of at least 4. Shunt surgery is preferred for secondary hydrocephalus, especially for secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus. Moreover, it is recommended to complete cranioplasty in staged operation or one-stage operation for the patients with decompressive craniectomy.

Central Shunting for Tetralogy of Fallot After Original Blalock-Taussig Shunt in a 34-Year-Old Woman

The Blalock-Taussig (BT) shunt was first used to treat the tetralogy of Fallot in 1946. Since then, it has undergone improvements to create a short circuit in the pulmonary artery using an artificial blood vessel. The prognosis after palliative surgery alone is poor; hence, there is a need for radical surgery to improve the long-term prognosis. However, for various reasons, some patients have undergone the Blalock surgery alone without any other therapeutic interventions. In this report, we describe a case of a central shunt surgery performed to improve cyanosis in a patient who had been followed up for a long time without radical surgery after receiving an original BT shunt.

Central Shunting for Tetralogy of Fallot After Original Blalock-Taussig Shunt in a 34-Year-Old Woman

The Blalock-Taussig (BT) shunt was first used to treat the tetralogy of Fallot in 1946. Since then, it has undergone improvements to create a short circuit in the pulmonary artery using an artificial blood vessel. The prognosis after palliative surgery alone is poor; hence, there is a need for radical surgery to improve the long-term prognosis. However, for various reasons, some patients have undergone the Blalock surgery alone without any other therapeutic interventions. In this report, we describe a case of a central shunt surgery performed to improve cyanosis in a patient who had been followed up for a long time without radical surgery after receiving an original BT shunt.

Modified central shunt in pulmonary atresia with diminutive pulmonary arteries.

The commonly used central shunt (i.e. direct connection of the divided main pulmonary artery to the ascending aorta) to facilitate the growth of the diminutive branch pulmonary artery in patients with pulmonary atresia with major aortopulmonary collateral arteries can cause main pulmonary artery distortion, and subsequent disproportional branch pulmonary artery flow and growth. This report describes a novel technique of shunt construction to minimize pulmonary artery torque and tension by using a modified central shunt constructed from autologous pericardium that is anastomosed in an end-to-side fashion to the lateral aspect of the ascending aorta. This shunt will serve as an intermediary conduit to facilitate the main pulmonary artery anastomosis while minimizing torque and tension on the main pulmonary artery. The tension-free connection between the main pulmonary artery and the aorta enabled by the modified central shunt supports proportional pulmonary artery flow and growth in patients with pulmonary atresia, ventricular septal defect, or multiple aortopulmonary collateral arteries and concomitant diminutive native pulmonary arteries.

Revisiting the central aortopulmonary shunt procedure.

In this study, we present our experience with the central aortopulmonary shunt technique with interposing a polytetrafluoroethylene graft between main pulmonary artery (end-to-end) and the ascending aorta (side-to-side) in a variety of cyanotic congenital heart defects. Between January 2019 and June 2022, a total of 10 patients (6 males, 4 females; mean age: 4.3±2.8 months; range, 5 days to 10 months) with hypoplastic central pulmonary arteries who underwent central aortopulmonary shunt procedure were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic characteristics, preoperative, operative, and postoperative data of the patients were recorded. The Nakata indices of the patients were also noted before the procedure, as well as before the second stage of palliation or definitive repair. Four (40%) patients were operated as the first-step palliation for univentricular circulation. Six (60%) patients had well-developed ventricles and were palliated to be treated with total correction. The median follow-up after the procedure was 12 (range, 8 to 16) months. The mean systemic arterial saturation level at room air was 89.3±2.9% during follow-up. No mortality was observed in any patient. A central aortopulmonary shunt procedure provides a reliable antegrade blood flow with a relatively non-challenging surgical technique that offers sufficient growth for the hypoplastic and confluent central pulmonary arteries with a very low risk of shunt thrombosis and overflow.

Percutaneous stent implantation for occluded central shunts in adults: A case report and review of current evidence.

Patients with cyanotic complex congenital heart defects (CHDs) commonly undergo palliation with interposition of systemic-to-pulmonary shunts (SPSs). These palliative shunts are rarely found in adults with CHDs and can be complicated with progressive obstruction or total occlusion during follow-up. The best treatment option for shunt re-permeabilization is challenging and case-oriented because most patients are high risk candidates for redo surgeries. We aimed to review the current evidence on percutaneous stent implantation to treat failed SPSs. We performed a comprehensive literature review on percutaneous stent implantation to treat failed and occluded SPSs. We also reported the case of a 33-year-old man with cyanotic CHD and a occluded central aorto-pulmonary shunt, who was successfully treated with percutaneous balloon dilatation and subsequently stent implantation at our institution. We identified and included 31 articles reporting on 150 patients and 165 stent implantations in failed SPSs. The age of patients at the time of stent implantation ranged from 6 days to 47 years. The time between the surgical shunt creation and transcatheter intervention ranged from 1 day to 17 years. Overall, 161/165 (97.5%) stent implantations were successful. The most common clinical presentation was cyanosis and decreased atrial oxygen saturations and the indication for stent implantation was shunt obstruction and stenosis. This review highlights the benefits of endovascular stenting to permeabilize failed SPSs in children and adults with complex CHD who are classified as poor candidates for re-surgical repair.

Pulse Oximetry Error in Patients With Single-Ventricle Palliation.

Pulse Oximetry Error in Patients With Single-Ventricle Palliation.

Speciation of coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) isolated from various clinical specimens in a tertiary care hospital of southern Rajasthan

Abstract Background: Coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) are a group of staph bacteria, which generally exist as normal flora of human skin and the oral flora found on mucous membranes. CoNS in immunocompromised patients can cause variety of infections like bacteraemia, central nervous system shunt infection, intravascular catheter-related infections, endocarditis, surgical site infections, urinary tract infections, foreign body infection, endophthalmitis, peritonitis and wound, bone and joint infections as well as infections in neonates. These infections are difficult to treat because of the risk factors and the drug resistant nature of the organisms.Objective:To find out species wise distribution of Coagulase negative Staphylococci (CoNS) in various relevant clinical samples in our institute. Materials and Method:A total of 500 CoNS strains were isolated from relevant clinical specimens. CoNS strains were isolated from variety of clinical specimens. Strains were identified as CoNS on the basis of colony morphology, gram stain, catalase test and coagulase test. Conventional methods were used for species identification after confirming isolates as CoNS. Results:The most common source of CoNS isolation was blood (34%), followed by respiratory secretions (24.4%), urine (16.8%), pus (13.4%), swabs (5.4%), bodily fluid (1.4%), and others (4.6%). S.epidermidis was most frequently isolated (30.6%), followed by S.hemolyticus (25.4%), S.hominis (12.6%), S.capitis (12%), S.lugdunensis (11.4%) and S.cohnii (08%). Conclusion : As CoNS have become major cause of nosocomial infections, there is a need for rapid identification and speciation of CoNS with their antibiotic susceptibility for better management of these cases and to prevent emergence of drug resistance.

Neointimal hyperplasia in systemic-to-pulmonary shunts of children with complex cyanotic congenital heart disease.

Neointimal hyperplasia might affect systemic-to-pulmonary shunt failure in infants with complex cyanotic congenital heart disease. The aim of this study was to elucidate histopathologic changes in polytetrafluoroethylene shunts and to determine whether increased neointimal formation is associated with early interventions comprising balloon dilatation, stent implantation and shunt revision. Furthermore, we intended to identify clinical factors associated with increased neointimal proliferation. Removed shunts were processed for histopathological analysis. Slides were stained with hematoxylin/eosin and Richardson. Immunohistochemistry was performed with anti-alpha-smooth muscle actin and anti-CD68. Non-parametric analysis and univariable regressions were performed to identify clinical factors associated with neointimal hyperplasia and shunt stenosis. Fifty-seven shunts (39 modified Blalock-Taussig anastomosis, 8 right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery anastomosis, 10 central shunts) were analysed. Area of neointimal proliferation within the shunt was in median 0.75 mm2 (interquartile range, 0.3-1.57 mm2) and relative shunt stenosis in median 16.7% (interquartile range, 6.7-30.8%). Neointimal hyperplasia and shunt stenosis correlated with each other and were significantly greater in the group that required early interventions and shunt revision. Univariable linear regression identified smaller shunt size and lower acetylsalicylic acid dosage as factors to be associated with greater neointimal proliferation and shunt stenosis. In infants with complex cyanotic congenital heart disease, neointimal hyperplasia in systemic-to-pulmonary shunts is associated with early interventions comprising balloon dilatation, stent implantation and shunt revision. Smaller shunt size and lower aspirin dosage are associated with increased neointimal proliferation.

Surgical treatment and outcome of intrahepatic shunts in 12 cats.

The objective of this case series was to describe the presentation, surgical treatment and outcome of a congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (IHPSS) in 12 cats. A retrospective case series of cats undergoing surgical treatment for an IHPSS was undertaken. Signalment, clinical signs, imaging, surgical treatment, complications and short-term outcome (<30 days) were obtained using medical records. Long-term outcome (>1 year after first surgery) was obtained, where possible, using a health-related quality of life owner questionnaire. Seven cats were diagnosed with a left divisional shunt, three with a central divisional shunt and two with a right divisional shunt using intraoperative mesenteric portovenography. Three cats tolerated complete acute suture attenuation, eight cats underwent partial suture attenuation, four of which received complete suture ligation at a second surgery, and one cat underwent partial attenuation with a thin film band. Six cats (50%) developed post-attenuation neurological signs (PANS) after first surgery and two cats (17%) died or were euthanased due to severe PANS. Long-term outcome was available for eight cats (67%), with a median follow-up time of 1743 days (range 364-2228), and was described as excellent in five cats (63%), fair in two cats (25%) and poor in one cat (12%). Few papers exist that describe the presentation, intraoperative imaging, treatment and outcome of IHPSSs in cats. This is the first to describe surgical attenuation with a thin film band in a cat with an IHPSS. This case series reports excellent long-term outcomes in a majority of surgically treated cats with IHPSS.

Unifocalization with pericardial roll technique in pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries.

This study aims to compare both the pericardial roll technique with the patch augmentation technique of the unifocalization, and single-stage complete repair with the unifocalization and shunt for the repair of the ventricular septal defect, pulmonary atresia, and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries. This was a retrospective review of the 48 patients undergoing unifocalization of the ventricular septal defect, pulmonary atresia, and major aorticopulmonary collateral arteries from a single center. Our cohort had two surgical pathways, including single-stage midline unifocalization (n = 40), unifocalization after pulmonary artery rehabilitation by creating an aortopulmonary window or central shunt (n = 8). There were two surgical techniques in single-stage midline unifocalizaton, including widening of the pulmonary arteries with a patch (n = 30), and connecting pulmonary arteries with a pericardial roll (n = 10). A total of 14 (29.2%) of 48 patients underwent single-stage complete repair, 26 patients underwent shunt palliation with unifocalization. Combined early and late mortality was seen in seven patients in those who underwent shunt palliation with unifocalization, while it was seen in one patient in those who underwent a single-stage complete repair (mortality ratio 26.8% vs. 7.1%, p = .22). There was no statistically significant difference between the pericardial roll and patch augmentation techniques in terms of pulmonary artery reintervention (p = .65). Although all pulmonary artery reinterventions were for unilateral pulmonary artery in the roll technique group, 41.7% of reinterventions were for bilateral pulmonary arteries in the pericardial augmentation group. Single-stage complete repair of the ventricular septal defect, pulmonary atresia, and major aorticopulmonary collateral arteries has better results than unifocalization with a shunt. In terms of nonvaluable raw material, the use of the pericardial roll technique is a considerable alternative for unifocalization.

The Effects of the Mechanical Properties of Vascular Grafts and an Anisotropic Hyperelastic Aortic Model on Local Hemodynamics during Modified Blalock-Taussig Shunt Operation, Assessed Using FSI Simulation.

Cardiovascular surgery requires the use of state-of-the-art artificial materials. For example, microporous polytetrafluoroethylene grafts manufactured by Gore-Tex® are used for the treatment of cyanotic heart defects (i.e., modified Blalock–Taussig shunt). Significant mortality during this palliative operation has led surgeons to adopt mathematical models to eliminate complications by performing fluid–solid interaction (FSI) simulations. To proceed with FSI modeling, it is necessary to know either the mechanical properties of the aorta and graft or the rheological properties of blood. The properties of the aorta and blood can be found in the literature, but there are no data about the mechanical properties of Gore-Tex® grafts. Experimental studies were carried out on the mechanical properties vascular grafts adopted for modified pediatric Blalock–Taussig shunts. Parameters of two models (the five-parameter Mooney–Rivlin model and the three-parameter Yeoh model) were determined by uniaxial experimental curve fitting. The obtained data were used for patient-specific FSI modeling of local blood flow in the “aorta-modified Blalock–Taussig shunt–pulmonary artery” system in three different shunt locations: central, right, and left. The anisotropic model of the aortic material showed higher stress values at the peak moment of systole, which may be a key factor determining the strength characteristics of the aorta and pulmonary artery. Additionally, this mechanical parameter is important when installing a central shunt, since it is in the area of the central anastomosis that an increase in stress on the aortic wall is observed. According to computations, the anisotropic model shows smaller values for the displacements of both the aorta and the shunt, which in turn may affect the success of preoperative predictions. Thus, it can be concluded that the anisotropic properties of the aorta play an important role in preoperative modeling.

Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Implantation in a Patient with Complex Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)

<h3>Introduction</h3> VAD implantation in complex CHD patients presents physiologic and anatomic challenges. Few such cases have been described. <h3>Case Report</h3> We report a 41-year-old man with a history of dextrocardia, unbalanced atrioventricular (A-V) septal defect, single ventricle, heterotaxy with right atrial isomerism and asplenia, bilateral superior vena cava, pulmonic stenosis, and systemic hypertension. He had undergone surgical palliation including bilateral BT shunts (age 3 months and 7 years) and central aortopulmonary shunt at age 13 years. At age 14 years, he underwent bilateral bidirectional Glenn and extracardiac Fontan repair, followed by mechanical A-V valve replacement at age 21 years and epicardial pacemaker placement for paroxysmal atrial tachycardia (AT). He had recurrent heart failure hospitalizations requiring inotropes. Echocardiography now demonstrated moderate aortic regurgitation. Cardiac catheterization on milrinone and dobutamine found elevated Fontan pressures to 21 mmHg (panel A), reduced cardiac index to 1.4 L/min/m², normal pulmonary vascular resistance and no transhepatic gradient. An intra-aortic balloon pump was placed with improvement of his Fontan pressures to 17 mmHg. However, he subsequently developed refractory AT and cardiogenic shock. Due to cardiac deterioration, he underwent urgent HeartMate3 implantation and aortic valve repair with Park stitch (B: pre-op; C: post-op image) as a bridge to transplant. Surgical approach was an upper hemisternotomy and an anterior right thoracotomy at the 6th intercostal space. His course was complicated by postoperative bleeding requiring re-exploration of the chest, as well as acute kidney injury requiring temporary hemodialysis with subsequent renal recovery. He was transferred to acute rehab 3 weeks after surgery and was discharged home on guideline-directed medical therapy. <h3>Summary</h3> We report an adult patient with dextrocardia, Fontan repair, and single ventricle who underwent successful VAD implantation.

The Role of Antisiphon Devices in the Prevention of Central Ventricular Catheter Obliteration for Hydrocephalus: A 15-Years Institution's Experience Retrospective Analysis.

Shunt over-drainage in patients harboring a ventriculoperitoneal shunt constitutes one of the most devastating, and difficult to manage, side effects associated with this operation. Siphoning is one of the most important contributing factors that predispose to this complication. Based on the fact that the predisposing pathophysiologic mechanism is considerably multiplicated, amelioration of that adverse condition is considerably difficult to achieve. A lot of evidence suggests that the widespread utilization of gravitational valves or antisiphon devices is of utmost importance, in order to minimize or even avoid the occurrence of such complications. The recent literature data highlight that gravity-related, long-lasting shunt over-drainage consists of a momentous factor that could be considered one of the main culprits of central shunt failure. A lot of efforts have been performed, in order to design effective means that are aimed at annihilating siphoning. Our tenet was the investigation of the usefulness of the incorporation of an extra apparatus in the shunt system, capable of eliminating the impact of the siphoning effect, based on the experience that was gained by their long-term use in our institution. A retrospective analysis was performed, based on the data that were derived from our institution’s database, centered on patients to which an ASD was incorporated into their initial shunt device between 2006 and 2021. A combination of clinical, surgical, radiological findings, along with the relevant demographic characteristics of the patients were collected and analyzed. We attempted to compare the rates of shunt dysfunction, attributed to occlusion of the ventricular catheter, in a group of patients, before and after the incorporation of an anti-siphon device to all of them. A total number of 120 patients who have already been shunted due to hydrocephalus of different etiologies, were managed with the insertion of an ASD. These devices were inserted at different anatomical locations, which were located peripherally to the initially inserted valvular mechanism. The data that were collected from a subpopulation of 17 of these patients were subjected to a separate statistical analysis because they underwent a disproportionately large number of operations (i.e., >10-lifetime shunt revisions). These patients were studied separately as their medical records were complicated. The analysis of our records revealed that the secondary implementation of an ASD resulted in a decrease of the 1-year and 5-year central catheter dysfunction rates in all of our patients when compared with the relevant obstruction rates at the same time points prior to ASD insertion. According to our data, and in concordance with a lot of current literature reports, an ASD may offer a significant reduction in the obstruction rates that is related to the ventricular catheter of the shunt. These data could only be considered preliminary and need to be confirmed with prospective studies. Nevertheless, this study could be considered capable of providing supportive evidence that chronic shunt over-drainage is a crucial factor in the pathophysiology of shunt malfunction. Apart from that, it could provide pilot data that could be reviewed in order to organize further clinical and laboratory studies, aiming toward the assessment of optimal shunt valve systems that, along with ASD, resist siphoning.