Pentalogy of Cantrell with a single-ventricle cardiac defect: collaborative management of a complex disease

Abstract

We present a case of ectopia cordis with a complex single-ventricle congenital heart defect in association with pentalogy of Cantrell. Management by a skilled multidisciplinary team was critical for patient survival. Early fetal diagnosis and the use of advanced imaging techniques allowed adequate time for planning and identified critical anatomic details. Preserving the heart's natural covering, performing cardiac surgery without cardiopulmonary bypass, and using catheter intervention decreased the risk to the patient. Complete coverage of the defect was achieved using skin generated with tissue expanders. This case illustrates the importance of collaboration when caring for infants with critical, high-risk disease and highlights the increased potential for survival with complex ectopia cordis in the current medical era.