Repair of tetralogy of Fallot with absent pulmonary valve using a new approach.

Although several techniques for the correction of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) with absent pulmonary valve have been described, the method of choice is controversial. Symptomatic infants, in particular, have a poor prognosis because of severe central pulmonary artery dilatation and bronchial compression. An alternative technique for primary repair of TOF with absent pulmonary valve syndrome is suggested. Apart from correction of TOF, this approach includes translocation of the pulmonary artery anterior to the aorta and away from the airways. This technique has a potential to reduce or eliminate bronchial compression by the pulmonary artery. Insertion of valve homograft with anterior and/or posterior plication of the pulmonary artery is considered especially in symptomatic newborns and infants. The intermediate-term functional outcomes have been encouraging, with zero mortality events even in the youngest age group of patients and with the disappearance of respiratory symptoms in the majority of them.