Perventricular Implantation of Melody Valve in Child With Pulmonary Hypertension After a Potts Shunt

Abstract

The Potts operation is a surgical option for the treatment of children with suprasystemic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Its positive hemodynamic effect may be obliterated by pulmonary valvar insufficiency. We describe a case in which the Potts shunt was followed by perventricular Melody valve implantation in the pulmonary position in a 12-kg child with a previously repaired truncus arteriosus communis (TAC) in whom PAH developed. The combined approach using both procedures significantly improved functional capacity and led to spectacular reverse remodeling of the right ventricle seen at 2-year follow-up. Elimination of significant pulmonary insufficiency is crucial in achieving the hemodynamic benefits of a Potts shunt in patients with pulmonary hypertension.