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Aortopulmonary Collaterals
Abnormal blood vessels that develop between the systemic and pulmonary circulations, commonly seen in complex congenital heart disease.
Full Definition
Aortopulmonary collaterals are abnormal vascular connections that form between the aortic circulation and the pulmonary arteries. These vessels typically develop as a compensatory mechanism in patients with reduced pulmonary blood flow, such as those with pulmonary atresia or severe tetralogy of Fallot. While they can provide some pulmonary blood flow, they often create volume overload and can complicate surgical planning. Management may include coil embolization or surgical ligation.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as APCs or MAPCAs (Major Aortopulmonary Collateral Arteries) in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Cardiac catheterization revealed extensive aortopulmonary collaterals requiring coil occlusion before surgical repair." — Catheterization report
- "The patient's saturations improved after embolization of competing aortopulmonary collaterals." — Interventional procedure note
Also known as
APCs
Systemic-to-pulmonary collaterals
MAPCAs
Don't confuse with
Systemic-to-pulmonary shunt
Bronchial arteries