[Anatomic correction of solitary left heart ventricle with left-sided transposition of the aorta]

A complex approach in determining the indications for radical correction of a solitary ventricle (SV) is discussed and the specific features of the operation and its results are shown. Radical correction of a SLV with levotransposition of the aorta was carried out in 4 patients one of whom died. The anatomy and function of the valves, the volume and functional characteristics of the SV, and the condition of the subaortic tract were studied in all patients before the operation. Diagnostic biopsy of the lung was undertaken in 3 cases to specify the character of pulmonary hypertension. To reduce the pliancy of the artificial interventricular septum (AIVS) and prevent bulging of the graft into the venous ventricle the method of the operation included: (a) creation of the AIVS from a duplicate of xenopericardium or Dacron whose dimensions were calculated before the operation; (b) plastic distention of the created venous ventricle by means of a graft. Complete atrioventricular block occurred after the operation in 1 patient and sinus rhythm in 2 patients. The patients are in a good condition corresponding to NYHA class 1 (2 patients) and 2 (1 patient) and lead an active live.