The Glenn procedure is formally known as the bi-directional cavopulmonary anastomosis.
This procedure is done when only one ventricle works properly and not enough blood is getting to the lungs.
The superior vena cava returns blood from the upper half of the body to the right atrium. This procedure involves disconnecting the superior vena cava from the right atrium and connecting it to the right pulmonary artery. This lets the blue, deoxygenated blood flow directly to both lungs, bypassing the heart.
This procedure is usually one in a series of operations. For example, it may be done after the removal of the Blalock-Thomas-Taussig (BTT) shunt or pulmonary artery banding.
This procedure tends to be done as an open-heart procedure.
Risks of the Glenn procedure
Aside from the usual risks associated with surgery, this procedure can also result in injury to the diaphragm, damage to lymph vessels, and damage to the heart's pacemaker. Abnormal blood vessels can also develop in the lungs. These are called arteriovenous malformations and they can cause cyanosis.