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Suspension of straddling tricuspid valve chordae into the appropriate ventricle

J A van Son1, J Hambsch, F W Mohr

  • 1Herzzentrum, University of Leipzig, Germany.

Insights

This study presents a novel surgical technique for inlet ventricular septal defects with straddling tricuspid valve chordae. The modified approach successfully repairs the defect and restores tricuspid valve competence, avoiding complex baffle construction.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease

Background:

  • Inlet ventricular septal defects (VSDs) can present with complex anatomical variations.
  • Straddling of the tricuspid valve chordae tendineae is a rare but challenging associated anomaly.
  • Traditional VSD repair techniques may be complicated by these straddling chordae.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric patients with inlet VSD and straddling chordae were identified.
  • Chordae originated from the tricuspid valve septal leaflet and attached to the mitral valve's posteromedial papillary muscle and an accessory left ventricular papillary muscle.
  • The straddling chordae were surgically excised along with portions of the papillary muscles.

Findings:

  • A modified surgical technique involved excising straddling chordae and anchoring papillary muscle segments to the right ventricular septum.
  • This approach resulted in successful ventricular septal defect closure and competent tricuspid valve function.
  • The modified technique avoids the need for complex baffle construction in the inappropriate ventricle.

Implications:

  • This innovative surgical modification offers a viable alternative for managing inlet VSDs with straddling chordae, particularly when chordae insert into mitral valve papillary muscles.
  • It simplifies the surgical procedure and potentially reduces operative risks associated with traditional methods.
  • This technique may improve outcomes for children with complex congenital heart defects involving tricuspid valve anomalies.

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