Rastelli procedure

Rastelli procedure is a cardiac surgical technique primarily used to correct congenital heart defects such as transposition of the great arteries (TGA), double outlet right ventricle (DORV), and ventricular septal defect (VSD). Named after its developer, Antonio Maria Rastelli, the procedure involves the creation of a conduit to redirect oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle to the aorta, while the right ventricle is connected to the pulmonary artery.

History[edit | edit source]

The Rastelli procedure was first described in 1969 by Antonio Maria Rastelli, an Italian cardiologist and cardiac surgeon. Rastelli's work was instrumental in the development of surgical techniques for the treatment of complex congenital heart defects.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The Rastelli procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the chest to access the heart and the patient is placed on cardiopulmonary bypass. The VSD is closed with a patch, effectively redirecting the left ventricular outflow to the aorta. A conduit, often made from a section of the patient's own pulmonary artery or a synthetic material, is then placed between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. This allows oxygen-poor blood to be pumped to the lungs.

Outcomes[edit | edit source]

The Rastelli procedure has significantly improved survival rates for patients with complex congenital heart defects. However, like all surgical procedures, it carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. Long-term outcomes depend on factors such as the patient's age at the time of surgery, the specific nature of their heart defect, and their overall health.