Bidirectional Glenn Procedure

Also known as: bidirectional cavopulmonary anastomosis, bidirectional Glenn shunt, cavopulmonary shunt.

What is Bidirectional Glenn Procedure?

Bidirectional Glenn procedure is one in a series of surgeries performed to get a sufficient amount of blood to the lungs. It is needed when one of the heart’s ventricles doesn’t work well.

What happens during the procedure?

The procedure is an open heart procedure. It involves joining a vein called the superior vena cava with the right pulmonary artery. This allows blood to avoid the right side of the heart and go directly to the lungs for oxygenation.

Is any special preparation needed?

Bidirectional Glenn Procedure is a major medical procedure. It will require several tests beforehand. The child may need to stop taking certain medications and avoid food or drink for a period of time prior to the procedure.

What are the risk factors?

Risks can include infection, increased pressure in the lungs and damage to the lungs, diaphragm or lymph vessels.

Bidirectional Glenn Procedure at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital: Bidirectional Glenn procedure is an involved open-heart surgery, but the staff at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital offers high-quality care and excellent results during this stressful time.


Reviewed by: Jun Sasaki, MD

This page was last updated on: December 19, 2019 02:17 PM

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