Cardiac transplantation in situs inversus

Abstract

Transplantation of the heart was successfully performed in a patient with situs inversus of the viscera and atria. Anatomic constants common to all patients allowed the left atrium, pulmonary artery, and aorta to be joined as usual in the transplant operation. Systemic venous reconstruction was the crux of the operation. A composite superior vena cava was reconstructed on the right side from the recipient translocated superior vena cava, donor superior vena cava and innominate vein, and recipient in situ pericardium. The inferior vena cava was rerouted from the left side across the midline to the right through a composite conduit consisting of the recipient night atrium and in situ pericardium over the diaphragm. These reconstructed venous passageways have remained patent and unobstructed for 1 1/2 years after the operation.