Recanalization and thrombectomy of internal anastomosis in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot using the AngioJet rheolytic catheter.

The modified Blalock-Taussig shunt is the palliative treatment of choice for tetralogy of Fallot. Shunt thrombosis is a potential complication, requiring high-risk reoperation. The use of percutaneous rheolytic devices for thrombus removal in such occluded shunts has not been previously reported. We describe a case in which use of a rheolytic catheter resulted in significant thrombus removal and rapid reversal of cyanosis and dyspnea in a 5-year-old patient. The patient remains free of symptoms at 30-day follow-up. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.