Coronary-pulmonary artery fistula in tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia

Abstract

Surgical correction of patients with tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia is now one of the routine procedures performed by pediatric cardiac surgeons. In one variant, the pulmonary arterial supply is derived from a fistulous communication from the coronary arteries. This rare and interesting situation poses a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma, as well as providing specific management challenges to the surgical team. Here, we discuss important aspects of this rare variant, specifically its morphology, presentation, evaluation and management.

Keywords: Arterio-arterial fistula; congenital; fistula; heart defects; pulmonary atresia; tetralogy of Fallot.