The Blalock-Hanlon procedure. A new look at an old operation

The Blalock-Hanlon procedure has been carried out in 48 neonates with 10 early deaths (21%). This compares favorably with the reported early mortality for balloon atrial septostomy. Most striking have been the length of palliation, freedom from complications, and low incidence of late death among these patients. In contrast, reported series of balloon septostomies have shown a high incidence of strokes, repeat hospitalization, inadequate palliation, and late deaths. Since palliation is reliable following a Blalock-Hanlon procedure, we do not favor early correction with hypothermic arrest but recommend it at 12 to 18 months of age, when conventional perfusion can be easily utilized.