Reconstruction technique for a short recipient left atrial cuff during lung transplantation

Eur J Cardiothorac Surg. 2014 Jun;45(6):1106-7. doi: 10.1093/ejcts/ezt509. Epub 2013 Oct 24.

Abstract

A simple technique for reconstructing a short recipient left atrial cuff during lung transplantation is described. After opening the confluence of the pulmonary veins, the cut ends of the pulmonary veins are sutured together, posteriorly and anteriorly. This effectively lengthens the cuff allowing safe left atrial anastomosis. This technique has been applied in 3 patients with no technique-related complications.

Keywords: Left atrium; Lung transplantation; Pulmonary veins; Reconstruction.

MeSH terms

  • Heart Atria / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Lung Transplantation / methods*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Pulmonary Veins / surgery*