Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2008; 56(7): 401-405
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1038736
Original Cardiovascular

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Function of Contegra Valved Grafts after Unifocalization

C. Arenz1 , N. Sinzobahamvya1 , M. Kaestner2 , H. C. Blaschczok1 , J. Photiadis1 , C. Fink3 , E. Schindler4 , B. Asfour1
  • 1Pediatric Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Deutsches Kinderherzzentrum Sankt Augustin, Sankt Augustin, Germany
  • 2Pediatric Cardiology, Deutsches Kinderherzzentrum Sankt Augustin, Sankt Augustin, Germany
  • 3Cardiac Intensive Care, Deutsches Kinderherzzentrum Sankt Augustin, Sankt Augustin, Germany
  • 4Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Deutsches Kinderherzzentrum Sankt Augustin, Sankt Augustin, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

received April 14, 2008

Publication Date:
22 September 2008 (online)

Abstract

Background: Can Contegra grafts withstand high pressure? Methods: The function of Contegra grafts implanted after unifocalization of major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs) in 10 patients was evaluated. Median age at repair was 194 days and two conduit sizes were used: 12 mm (n = 8) and 14 mm (n = 2). Echocardiography and heart catheterization findings were reviewed. Results: Two patients died: one early after repair, one late. Death was not graft related. The median duration of observation for survivors was 31 (range 4 – 42) months. The postoperative right ventricular/left ventricular pressure ratio was greater than 75 % in 9 patients. High pressures persisted in 6 survivors. Seven patients underwent interventional dilatation/stenting of pulmonary arteries on 19 occasions. No obstruction was detected in the conduit. Graft valve regurgitation increased in 5 patients, but never exceeded grade 2 (n = 4). Freedom from reoperation for conduit dysfunction/failure was 100 % at month 42. Conclusion: At mid-term follow-up, the Contegra grafts withstood high pressure without significant dysfunction or aneurysmal dilatation requiring surgery. Contegra appears to be an acceptable alternative to the aortic homograft for use after unifocalization of MAPCAs in infancy.

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Dr. Nicodème Sinzobahamvya

Pediatric Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
Deutsches Kinderherzzentrum Sankt Augustin

Arnold-Janssen-Straße 29

53757 Sankt Augustin

Germany

Phone: + 49 (0) 22 41 24 96 01

Fax: + 49 (0) 22 41 24 96 02

Email: n.sinzobahamvya@asklepios.com