Long-term results after repair of truncus arteriosus communis in neonates and infants.

BACKGROUND

We reviewed our experience of truncus arteriosus communis (TAC) repair.

METHODS

Between 05/90 and 10/01, 16 patients underwent complete repair of TAC (primary repair: group I, 12 patients, secondary repair: group II, 4 patients). Age was 2.4 months [5 days-8.8 months] (median [range]) in group I, and 8.3 [5.6-13.5] years in group II. Continuity from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery was achieved using a valved conduit. All patients had regular follow-up examinations.

RESULTS

There was one early death in each group (12.5%). Follow-up was 9 [1.2-12.7] years. Valved conduit failure occurred in 8 patients (67 %) in group I (group II, 1 patient, 33 %) requiring replacement at 2.5 [0.3-4.3] years (group II, 5.8 years). Severe neo-aortic valve regurgitation after truncal valve repair was observed in one patient, requiring valve replacement at 8.5 years in association with repeat homograft replacement (group I). Actual echocardiographic examination revealed normal ventricular function. Moderate conduit dysfunction was noted in 2 patients (group I).

CONCLUSIONS

Complete repair of truncus arteriosus communis can be performed with excellent long-term results.