Baffle (medicine)

Baffle (medicine) is a medical term referring to a surgical procedure or device used to redirect the flow of blood or other bodily fluids. It is often used in the context of congenital heart disease treatment, where baffles are used to correct abnormal blood flow patterns.

Overview

A baffle in medicine is typically a synthetic material, such as Dacron, that is surgically implanted to guide the flow of blood or other fluids. The purpose of a baffle is to correct abnormal flow patterns caused by congenital defects or disease. The use of baffles is common in cardiac surgery, particularly in procedures to correct congenital heart defects.

Use in Cardiac Surgery

In cardiac surgery, baffles are often used in procedures such as the Fontan procedure or Mustard procedure. These procedures are used to treat complex congenital heart defects, such as tricuspid atresia or transposition of the great arteries.

In the Fontan procedure, a baffle is used to direct blood from the inferior vena cava and superior vena cava to the pulmonary arteries, bypassing the right heart. This is done to improve oxygenation in patients with a single functional ventricle.

In the Mustard procedure, a baffle is used to redirect oxygenated blood to the systemic circulation in patients with transposition of the great arteries.

Complications

While baffles can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with certain heart conditions, they are not without risks. Complications can include thrombosis, arrhythmia, and baffle leaks or obstruction. Long-term follow-up and management are necessary to monitor for these potential complications.

See Also

• Cardiac surgery
• Congenital heart defect
• Fontan procedure
• Mustard procedure