Cavo Pulmonary Connection (Stage Two)

Cavo Pulmonary Shunt (Glenn Shunt) or The Hemi-Fontan Operation

As the children grow, they will require a more permanent supply of blood to their lungs than earlier surgical procedures can provide. A Cavo Pulmonary Connection is normally performed between three and nine months of age.

The aim of this operation is to redirect the flow of blue blood (deoxygenated blood) to the lungs by attaching the upper body vein (Superior Vena Cava) directly on to the lung artery (Pulmonary Artery). The Gore-Tex shunt that was inserted at the last operation will be taken away.

In some centres the stump of the lower body vein (Inferior Vena Cava) is attached to the base of the lung artery (Pulmonary Artery). This is known as the Hemi-Fontan. Although blood does not flow through this attachment at this time, it prepares the child for the completion of a Fontan at Stage Three.

These operations have fewer risks than the first stage but it is important to talk with the medical team to find out the risks for your child.

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