Anatomical reconstruction of proximal coronary artery stenosis in children

A Krokovay1, R Prêtre2, O Kretschmar3

  • 1Division of Congenital Cardiovascular Surgery, Paediatric Heart Centre, Children's Research Centre, University Children's Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.

Insights

Surgical reconstruction of pediatric coronary artery stenosis using anatomical techniques offers excellent long-term outcomes. This method effectively restores coronary blood flow, preserving future treatment options.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric cardiovascular surgery
  • Congenital heart disease
  • Coronary artery anomalies

Background:

  • Proximal coronary artery stenosis and atresia in children require effective surgical solutions.
  • Traditional methods may have limitations in restoring physiological coronary blood flow.
  • Evolving techniques focus on anatomical reconstruction for improved outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the medium- to long-term outcomes of anatomical reconstruction for ostial and short segment proximal coronary artery stenosis in children.
  • To assess the efficacy of patch plasty and interposition vein grafts in these complex cases.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of nine children undergoing ten left main coronary artery reconstructions.
  • Utilized autologous great saphenous vein patch, autologous pericardium, xenopericardium, or great saphenous vein interposition grafts.
  • Performed complementary wedge resection of stenotic coronary ostia in chronic cases.

Main Results:

  • 100% survival rate at a median follow-up of 12.6 years.
  • All patients maintained normal left ventricular ejection fraction.
  • Follow-up angiography showed unobstructed coronary arteries in most cases, with one instance of non-significant obstruction.

Conclusions:

  • Anatomical reconstruction of the proximal left coronary artery using autologous saphenous vein is a viable option.
  • This technique facilitates optimal restoration of physiological coronary blood flow.
  • It preserves the possibility of future coronary bypass surgery.
Abstract