Lung Transplant for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension After Arterial Switch Operation

Abstract

Pulmonary arterial hypertension after arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries is an infrequent but life-threatening complication. We report successful lung transplantation in a case of pulmonary hypertension after arterial switch operation. Cardiopulmonary bypass outflow was established through the right subclavian and femoral arteries because of the previous arterial switch operation. Abnormal anatomy and severe pleural and pericardial adhesions as a result of previous operations resulted in prolonged graft ischemic and operation times. Despite delayed left heart adaptation and primary graft dysfunction requiring prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, the recipient was eventually discharged without activity limitations.