The hybrid procedure is used in some patients instead of the Norwood operation and limits the amount of blood that flows to the lungs.
The hybrid procedure is performed in the catheterization laboratory, but involves a cardiac surgeon and an interventional cardiologist.
The surgeon places bands on the pulmonary arteries using a surgical incision. This limits the amount of blood which flows to the lungs. The interventionalist then places a metal tube called a stent in the ductus arteriosus so that it remains open to supply blood to the body.
The baby can often be discharged within a few weeks of this procedure, although careful follow-up is required. The baby will then undergo a combination of the Norwood procedure and cavopulmonary anastomosis at 4 to 6 months of age.
Risks of the hybrid procedure
Complications of this procedure may include bleeding, infection, and too much or too little blood flow to the lungs. Some babies also have feeding difficulties during their recovery.