Hemolytic anemia after atrioventricular septal defect repair without synthetic material.

We report a rare case of severe hemolytic anemia following repair of a congenital heart defect without the use of prosthetic material. A review of the literature, diagnosis, and management are described. Although this is an unusual complication following congenital heart surgery, a high index of suspicion must be maintained and a possible mechanical cause should be sought and corrected.