Blalock-Taussig Shunt
Pronunciation: BLAY-lock TOW-sig
A surgical shunt connecting a systemic artery to a pulmonary artery to increase pulmonary blood flow in cyanotic heart disease.
Full Definition
The Blalock-Taussig Shunt (BT shunt) is a palliative surgical procedure that creates an artificial connection between the systemic and pulmonary circulations to increase blood flow to the lungs in patients with cyanotic congenital heart disease. Originally described as a direct connection between the subclavian artery and pulmonary artery, the modern modified BT shunt uses a synthetic tube graft. This procedure is often the first stage in a series of operations for complex congenital heart defects such as tetralogy of Fallot with severe pulmonary stenosis or single ventricle lesions.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Alfred Blalock and Helen Taussig. Often abbreviated as BT shunt. Note correct spelling of 'Taussig'.
In Context
- "A 3.5mm Blalock-Taussig Shunt was placed to augment pulmonary blood flow." — Operative report
- "The Blalock-Taussig Shunt provided adequate palliation until the patient was ready for definitive repair." — Surgical outcome review