Periocardiophrenic Release to Prevent Conduit Compression After Neonatal Truncus Arteriosus Repair

Sternal approximation postcardiac surgery in neonates can sometimes be challenging. Neonatal truncus arteriosus repair using a right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery homograft conduit is one such surgical procedure wherein there is a risk of developing conduit compression after sternal closure. We describe our technique of pericardiophrenic release at the time of delayed sternal closure to prevent hemodynamic compromise and conduit compression after sternal approximation in such cases. (c) 2022 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons

Automated summary

In neonates undergoing postcardiac surgery, sternal approximation can be challenging, especially in cases where a right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery homograft conduit is used. We describe a technique of pericardiophrenic release during delayed sternal closure to prevent hemodynamic compromise and conduit compression.