Surgical Management of a Case of Aortic Arch Interruption in Senegal - Abstract
Introduction: Aortic arch interruption is a rare congenital heart malformation, often associated with Di-George syndrome in type B of Celoria-Patton
or other cardiac abnormalities. It is a major life-saving neonatal medical and surgical emergency. Surgical treatment in developing countries is limited by
insufficient technical resources, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
Observation: We report the case of a 28-day-old newborn successfully operated for a type B aortic arch interruption associated with a VSD and PDA
in the Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Department of the Fann National University Hospital in Dakar, Senegal. The repair consisted of closure of the VSD
and the ductus arteriosus, and restoration of aortic continuity by end-to-end aorto-aortic anastomosis. She presented with postoperative hydro-electrolytic
disturbances which were corrected. A superficial infection of the surgical site, which occurred from day 15 with suture release without fever, evolved favorably
under antibiotics and local care. A secondary suture was made on day 45. The patient was discharged from intensive care on day 30 and returned home on
day 60. The clinical examination and cardiac ultrasound at 1 year were satisfactory. The prognosis was considered good.
Conclusion: Type B aortic arch interruption is rare, and its ductal dependence makes it a medical and surgical emergency. Appropriate and urgent
medical and surgical management can preserve the patient’s life.