Aortopulmonary Collateral

Full Definition

An aortopulmonary collateral is an abnormal vascular connection between the systemic (aortic) and pulmonary circulations. These vessels develop as compensatory pathways when normal pulmonary blood flow is restricted, commonly seen in complex congenital heart defects like pulmonary atresia. They can be protective by providing pulmonary blood flow, but may also create volume overload or steal phenomena. Accurate identification and description of these collaterals is crucial in surgical planning and patient management.

Usage

Usage note: Often abbreviated as MAPCA when referring to major aortopulmonary collateral arteries.

In Context

• "The cardiac catheterization revealed multiple aortopulmonary collaterals supplying the right lung segments." — Catheterization Report
• "Unifocalization of aortopulmonary collaterals was performed prior to conduit placement." — Operative Note