Objective: Aortic arch reconstruction in neonates routinely requires deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. The use of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) has played an important role in developing successful repair techniques for complex congenital heart disease. However, there have been a trend away from the use of DHCA because of the potential adverse neurological out come. We reviewed our experience with techniques of continuous low-flow cerebral perfusion (LFCP) avoiding total circulatory arrest.
Method: Since 2003, eight patients requiring aortic arch reconstruction were operated using continuous low-flow cerebral perfusion (LFCP). Intacardiac lesions when present were corrected during rewarming.
Results: Our initial limited experience with continuous low-flow cerebral perfusion (LFCP) is promising. We had no mortality and no neurological sequel in this small group.
Conclusion: continuous low-flow cerebral perfusion (LFCP), avoids staged operation, when intracardiac lesions associates with aortic arch anomalies. Regional perfusion or continous low-flow cerebral perfusion is feasible and can be used with acceptable results. It may reduce potential complications following aortic arch reconstruction using circulatory arrest.