Correction of truncus arteriosus in the neonate using a nonvalved conduit

Successful correction of truncus arteriosus in two neonates, both 4 days of age, is described. Nonvalved polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) conduits were used because of the small size of the infants. Both recovered from operation with no signs right ventricular failure and remain well. Catheterization data on one patient show satisfactory hemodynamics 1 year after operation with only residual branch pulmonary artery stenosis. These data suggest that a conduit valve is not essential in the correction of truncus arteriosus even in the neonate.