Conduit
Pronunciation: KON-doo-it
An artificial tube or biological graft used to create blood flow connections in cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
In congenital cardiac surgery, a conduit is a tube-like structure used to establish blood flow between cardiac chambers or vessels when direct anastomosis is not feasible. Conduits can be made from synthetic materials like Gore-Tex, biological tissues such as homografts or xenografts, or harvested native vessels. They are commonly used in procedures like the Rastelli operation to connect the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. Conduits may require replacement over time due to patient growth or structural deterioration, making long-term follow-up essential.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type of conduit (homograft, xenograft, synthetic) and size when relevant.
In Context
- "The surgeon placed a 16mm Contegra conduit between the right ventricle and pulmonary artery." — operative report
- "Conduit stenosis developed five years after initial implantation, requiring intervention." — follow-up assessment