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Published on: March 10, 2023
Intra-atrial tunnel technique for hepatic-draining scimitar syndrome
Hanae Sasaki1, Hideyuki Kato1, Yuki Imanaka1
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
Asian Cardiovascular & Thoracic Annals
|June 15, 2026
Summary
Scimitar syndrome, a rare congenital anomaly, involves abnormal pulmonary venous drainage. Surgical correction using an intra-atrial tunnel technique successfully rerouted the scimitar vein in a complex case.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Scimitar syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly.
- It is characterized by abnormal pulmonary venous drainage, where the scimitar vein drains into the systemic circulation.
- This anomalous venous connection can lead to significant hemodynamic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of scimitar syndrome with drainage into the hepatic vein.
- To describe the successful surgical correction of this complex anomaly.
- To highlight the efficacy of the intra-atrial tunnel technique in managing such cases.
Main Methods:
- A 15-year-old female patient with scimitar syndrome was diagnosed with anomalous drainage of the scimitar vein into the hepatic vein.
- Surgical correction was performed using an intra-atrial tunnel technique.
- The scimitar vein was rerouted to the left atrium via right atrial anastomosis.
Main Results:
- The surgical procedure successfully corrected the abnormal pulmonary venous drainage.
- The intra-atrial tunnel technique proved effective in managing this complex scimitar syndrome variant.
- The patient experienced a successful outcome following the intervention.
Conclusions:
- The intra-atrial tunnel technique is a viable and effective surgical option for complex scimitar syndrome.
- This approach allows for successful rerouting of anomalous pulmonary venous connections.
- This case underscores the importance of tailored surgical strategies for rare congenital heart anomalies.

