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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

Damus-Kaye-Stansel procedure

Pronunciation: DAY-mus KAY STAN-sel

Also written as: DKS — Damus-Kaye-Stansel procedure

Surgical procedure that creates a direct connection between the pulmonary artery and ascending aorta, typically performed for complex single ventricle physiology.

Full Definition

The Damus-Kaye-Stansel (DKS) procedure is a palliative surgical technique used in complex congenital heart disease, particularly in patients with single ventricle physiology and systemic outflow obstruction. The procedure involves creating an anastomosis between the main pulmonary artery and the ascending aorta, effectively allowing the single ventricle to pump blood to both the systemic and pulmonary circulations. This is often performed as part of a staged approach toward Fontan completion. The native aortic arch is typically ligated or oversewn, and pulmonary blood flow is maintained through a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt. The procedure helps optimize cardiac output while reducing volume overload on the single ventricle.

Usage

Usage note: Often abbreviated as DKS in clinical notes; ensure clarity when discussing alongside other complex procedures.

In Context

  • "The patient underwent DKS procedure with concurrent bidirectional Glenn shunt." — Operative report
  • "Long-term follow-up after Damus-Kaye-Stansel procedure showed good functional status." — Research paper

Also known as

DKS anastomosis pulmonary artery to aorta anastomosis

Don't confuse with

Norwood procedure arterial switch operation

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