Total correction of tetralogy of Fallot. How to deal with the complicated ascending aorta-right pulmonary artery anastomosis.

Ascending aorta-right pulmonary artery anastomosis may be complicated by deformity at the anastomotic site leading to discontinuity between pulmonary artery branches. Simple closure of such shunts through the ascending aorta is associated with residual stenosis and pressure gradients. An alternative approach which allows reconstruction of the entire intrapericardial pulmonary arterial system at the initial corrective operation is described. The transection of the ascending aorta facilitates the exposure necessary for this extensive repair. Two illustrative cases are presented.