Hybrids and Norwoods

I hope she does really well. Thank you for sharing your insight and experience with me.

The Hybrid procedure, named hybrid becomes it combines interventional cath lab with surgical procedures, is an alternative to the Norwood. The reason for the hybrid is because it is less invasive, takes approximately 5hr less and can generally be done without cardiopulmonary bypass. It can also reduce the number of pump runs, which generally has a better outcome. This procedure then allows the infant to grow older, stronger and develop a better immune system before proceding to the next stage (Glenn Shunt) for major reconstruction. They implant a stent in the ductus arteriosus, which connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta. Then band the branch PA to restrict some pulmonary blood flow.
I think the problem we have been having is, for whatever reason, when they are doing the banding it is too big. My last patient that had this procedure passed away. I was told the band was too big. I am not sure if it is because she was so small and there wasn't a way to get the band tight enough to restrict enough of the pulm blood flow. I guess typing this has made me think of some things I'd like to speak to our CV docs about. So Jan I hope your little baby is doing better!! And I hope the above info was informative enough. Bless you all!