Pediatric interventions: Emergent stent placement for acute Blalock-Taussig shunt obstruction after stage 1 Norwood surgery

Abstract

A neonate underwent a stage 1 Norwood surgery for hypoplastic left heart syndrome and subsequently developed profound cyanosis and hemodynamic instability. Catheterization revealed an occluded modified Blalock-Taussig shunt. Angioplasty and stent implantation resulted in immediate angiographic and clinical improvement, which has persisted at 5-month follow-up. This therapy may provide lifesaving treatment in selected patients.