Glenn shunt
A surgical connection between the superior vena cava and the pulmonary artery, used in staged palliation of complex congenital heart defects.
Full Definition
The Glenn shunt is a surgical procedure that creates a connection between the superior vena cava (SVC) and the right pulmonary artery, bypassing the right ventricle. This procedure is commonly used as an intermediate stage in the surgical management of single ventricle congenital heart defects, such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome or tricuspid atresia. The bidirectional Glenn shunt allows venous blood from the upper body to flow directly to the lungs for oxygenation, reducing the volume load on the single functioning ventricle. This procedure typically precedes the completion of Fontan circulation.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize 'Glenn' as this is an eponymous procedure. Specify 'bidirectional' when referring to the modern technique.
In Context
- "The patient underwent successful bidirectional Glenn shunt creation at six months of age." — surgical report
- "Cardiac catheterization prior to Glenn shunt showed adequate pulmonary artery pressures." — pre-operative assessment