What is a common surgical intervention for tricuspid atresia with inadequate pulmonary blood flow?

In cases of tricuspid atresia with inadequate pulmonary blood flow, one commonly used surgical intervention is the Blalock-Taussig (BT) shunt. This procedure involves the creation of a connection between a systemic artery, typically the subclavian artery, and the pulmonary artery. The primary purpose of the BT shunt is to enhance pulmonary blood flow to support the development of the lungs and ensure adequate oxygenation of the blood, which is especially crucial in patients with inadequate flow due to tricuspid atresia.

The BT shunt is often employed in younger patients or in cases where the anatomy does not allow for more complex procedures initially. It serves as a palliative measure that can stabilize the patient’s condition until more definitive surgery, such as the Fontan procedure, can be performed later in life. Understanding the rationale behind employing the BT shunt in this context highlights its role in managing hypoxemia and facilitating better oxygen delivery to systemic circulation.

The other surgical options listed may not be appropriate as initial interventions for tricuspid atresia with inadequate pulmonary blood flow. The Fontan procedure is typically performed as a later definitive correction to route venous return directly to the pulmonary arteries when sufficient blood flow has been established. The