CAVOPULMONARY SHUNT Meaning and
Definition
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A cavopulmonary shunt is a surgical procedure performed to redirect blood flow in the heart and lungs. It is typically used in patients with complex congenital heart defects, specifically those who have a single functional ventricle or inadequate function of one ventricle.
During the cavopulmonary shunt procedure, a connection is made between the superior or inferior vena cava and the pulmonary artery. This allows deoxygenated blood from the body to bypass the heart's right ventricle and flow directly into the lungs. The shunt effectively separates oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, improving the oxygen levels in the body.
The cavopulmonary shunt is often a staged procedure, involving multiple surgeries. The initial stage may involve rerouting blood flow from the superior vena cava to the pulmonary arteries, and a later stage can involve rerouting blood from the inferior vena cava.
This procedure helps to reduce the workload on the single functioning ventricle and improves oxygenation in the body. It can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin). The ultimate goal of a cavopulmonary shunt is to provide adequate blood oxygenation and improve the overall function of the heart and lungs.
Regular monitoring and follow-up are crucial after a cavopulmonary shunt procedure to ensure its effectiveness and detect any potential complications.
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Etymology of CAVOPULMONARY SHUNT
The word "cavopulmonary shunt" is a medical term used to describe a surgical procedure that redirects blood flow in individuals with certain congenital heart defects. It is derived from the Latin and Greek roots:
1. "Cavo" - Latin for "hollow" or "cavity", which refers to the main vein in the body called the "vena cava". In this context, "cavo" represents the superior vena cava or inferior vena cava, which play a role in the shunting procedure.
2. "Pulmonary" - from the Latin term "pulmonarius", referring to the lungs. In this case, it pertains to the pulmonary artery and the flow of blood to the lungs.
3. "Shunt" - from the Old English word "sceotan", meaning "to shoot" or "to divert".
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