Double switch operation for superior-inferior ventricles

Superior-inferior ventricles are a rare cardiac malformation characterized by the two ventricles lying one above the other instead of side by side. Co nsequently, the interventricular septum that separates such ventricles is h orizontal, and anomalies of the atrioventricular valves and the ventriculoa rterial relations are almost always present. This complex anomaly is diffic ult to manage with an operation, so few cases have been reported. We descri be a successful experience in which we performed a double switch operation, consisting of the Senning and Jatene procedures, for this rare malformatio n accompanied by double-outlet right ventricle {S,L,L}. This is the first r eport we have been able to locate of a double switch operation for superior -inferior ventricles. (C) 2001 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.