Glenn Anastomosis
Pronunciation: ah-nas-toh-MOH-sis
A surgical connection between the superior vena cava and pulmonary artery, used as a staging procedure for single ventricle physiology.
Full Definition
Glenn anastomosis refers to the surgical connection of the superior vena cava directly to the pulmonary artery, bypassing the heart's pumping chambers for venous return from the upper body. This procedure is typically performed as the second stage in the three-stage surgical palliation for patients with single ventricle physiology. The operation reduces volume load on the single ventricle while maintaining pulmonary blood flow. Named after American surgeon William Wallace Mustard Glenn, this procedure has evolved from the classic Glenn to the bidirectional Glenn shunt.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize 'Glenn' as it is named after a person; specify type (classic vs. bidirectional) when relevant.
In Context
- "The patient underwent Glenn anastomosis at six months of age as part of staged palliation." — surgical timeline
- "Post-Glenn anastomosis cardiac catheterization revealed excellent hemodynamics." — follow-up report