Transcatheter intervention of modified Blalock–Taussig shunts in patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome undergoing stage 1 palliation

The transcatheter intervention of the MBTSs in patients with HLHS undergoing NP is considered both safe and potentially life-saving in emergent situations. This approach may facilitate improved pulmonary development, postpone the need for subsequent surgeries, and provide medium-term palliative care for critically ill patients. However, managing late complications such as stent thrombosis remains a significant challenge. Our findings indicate that risk factors for shunt thrombosis include using ECMO therapy, underlying coagulation disorders, impaired lymphatic drainage, requiring multiple stents within the shunt, and a prior history of thrombosis before intervention. Dual antiplatelet therapy is recommended to alleviate the risk of thrombotic events in this population.