Intraoperative balloon angioplasty for aortic coarctation after Norwood operation

We report intraoperative balloon angioplasty for recurrentaortic coarctation in hypoplastic left heart syndrome. After bidirectional Glenn anastomosis, balloon angioplasty was performed via ascending aorta. Pressure gradient across the coarctation decreased from 45 to 8 mm Hg. Intravascular ultrasound revealed successful splits of thickened intima without any extensive dissection. Intraoperative balloon angioplasty is a safe and favorable procedure for hypoplastic left heart syndrome because balloon inflation before bidirectional Glenn anastomosis could induce serious ventricular collapse or arrhythmias. (Ann Thorac Surg 2000;70:289-91) (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.