Role of Systemic to Pulmonary Artery Shunt after Cavopulmonary Anastomosis

Superior cavopulmonary anastomosis and total cavopulmonary anastomosis are the procedures of choice for the management of patients with a functionally univentricular heart. We review the various indications, sites, advantages, and complications of a systemic to pulmonary artery shunt after the creation of superior cavopulmonary anastomosis. Systemic pulmonary artery shunt may be useful as a palliative strategy in patients who have hypoxemia and completion of total cavopulmonary anastomosis is not feasible. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12154 (J Card Surg 2013;28:599–603)