Recanalization and thrombectomy of internal anastomosis in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot using the AngioJet rheolytic catheter

The modified Blalock-Taussig shunt is the palliative treatment of choice fo r tetralogy of Fallot. Shunt thrombosis is a potential complication, requir ing high-risk reoperation. The use of percutaneous rheolytic devices for th rombus removal in such occluded shunts has not been previously reported. We describe a case in which use of a rheolytic catheter resulted in significa nt thrombus removal and rapid reversal of cyanosis and dyspnea in a 5-year- old patient. The patient remains free of symptoms at 30-day follow-up. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.