What Heart Defects Can Be Treated With The Glenn Procedure?

Congenital Heart Defects (CHD) are prevalent congenital disorders, affecting around 0.8% to 1.2% of live births globally. Among the surgical interventions for CHD, the Glenn procedure stands out as a crucial treatment option.

It is estimated that approximately 3.7% of all pediatric cardiac surgeries worldwide involve the Glenn procedure. Advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques have led to improved outcomes.

The 30-day mortality rate for the Glenn procedure is relatively low, ranging from 1-2%, and there have been noticeable enhancements in survival rates in recent years. Many patients who undergo the Glenn procedure experience long-term survival, often living well into adulthood, highlighting the procedure’s effectiveness in managing CHD.

Let’s delve into the types of heart defects that can be effectively treated using the Glenn procedure.

What Are Congenital Heart Defects?

Congenital Heart Defects (CHD) are structural abnormalities that affect the heart’s function at birth. These defects can involve the heart’s walls, valves, or blood vessels, disrupting normal blood flow. Examples include atrial septal defects (ASDs), ventricular septal defects (VSDs), and Tetralogy of Fallot.

While some defects are minor and may not require treatment, others can be life-threatening and need immediate medical intervention.

Dr. Dinesh Mittal is a prominent figure in treating Congenital Heart Defects (CHD). He has successfully performed numerous surgeries, including the Glenn procedure, improving outcomes for children. With a low 30-day mortality rate of 1-2%, Dr. Mittal’s expertise contributes to the 3.7% of pediatric cardiac surgeries worldwide involving the Glenn procedure, offering hope to many families.

What Role Does the Glenn Procedure Play?

The Glenn procedure is a surgical technique used to improve blood flow in children with specific types of CHDs, especially those with single ventricle physiology. In these conditions, the heart has only one functional pumping chamber (ventricle) instead of the normal two (left and right ventricles). The Glenn procedure helps to reroute blood flow to improve oxygenation and reduce the workload on the single ventricle.

Which Heart Defects Does This Procedure Treat?

The Glenn procedure is commonly performed to treat the following heart defects:

Pulmonary Atresia with Intact Ventricular Septum (PAIVS): This condition involves the absence of the pulmonary valve and a solid wall (intact septum) between the heart’s two lower chambers (ventricles). This procedure helps direct blood flow from the upper body to the lungs, bypassing the heart’s right ventricle.
Tricuspid Atresia: In this defect, the tricuspid valve is either missing or abnormally developed, preventing blood from flowing correctly between the right atrium and right ventricle. The Glenn procedure helps improve blood flow to the lungs by directly connecting the superior vena cava (SVC) to the pulmonary artery.
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS): HLHS is a complex defect where the left side of the heart is underdeveloped. This procedure is part of a staged surgical approach used to reroute blood flow and improve circulation in these patients.
Double Inlet Left Ventricle (DILV) or Double Inlet Right Ventricle (DIRV): These defects involve having one functional ventricle and a single atrioventricular valve. The Glenn procedure helps to divert blood flow to the lungs to improve oxygenation.
Unbalanced Atrioventricular Canal Defect: This defect involves an abnormal opening in the heart’s center, affecting both the atria and ventricles. This procedure can be part of the treatment plan for these patients, depending on their specific anatomy and physiology.
Congenitally Corrected Transposition of the Great Arteries (CCTGA): In this condition, the aorta and pulmonary artery are switched, leading to abnormal blood flow. The Glenn procedure could improve blood flow to the lungs.

What Are The Benefits of The Procedure?

This procedure offers several benefits for children with complex congenital heart defects, including:

Improved Oxygen Levels: By bypassing the heart’s right ventricle and directing blood flow from the upper body directly to the lungs, this procedure helps improve oxygenation.
Enhanced Heart Function: The procedure reduces the workload on the single ventricle, improving overall heart function and circulation.
Better Quality of Life: Many children experience an improved quality of life after the Glenn procedure, with increased energy levels and the ability to participate in more activities.
Increased Life Expectancy: This procedure has improved survival rates and long-term outcomes for children with certain heart defects.

A happy patient of Dr. Mittal expressed, “After years of struggling with my son’s congenital heart defect, we finally opted for the Glenn procedure. Dr. Mittal and his team were incredible throughout the process. Today, my son is thriving, full of energy, and living a normal life. We are forever grateful for Dr. Mittal’s expertise and the Glenn procedure.”

Another patient who underwent the Glenn procedure for a congenital heart defect remarked, “The Glenn procedure has completely changed my life. Before the surgery, I struggled with low energy and limited physical activity. Now, I feel like a new person, able to do things I never thought possible. Dr. Mittal’s skill and care have given me a second chance at life.”

How Much Does The Glenn Procedure Cost In India?

In India, the Glenn procedure costs between INR 3,00,000 and INR 4,00,000 (about USD 4,000 to USD 5,500). However, the cost may be greater in some circumstances, mainly if the procedure involves complications.

Other factors that influence the costs are:

The hospital
The surgeon’s fees
The complexity of the surgery
The additional medical care needed

Therefore, consulting with a healthcare provider or hospital for an accurate estimate based on your circumstances is important.

Conclusion

The Glenn procedure is crucial in treating congenital heart defects, significantly improving the affected children’s oxygenation, heart function, and overall quality of life. With advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques, the procedure has become safer and more effective, leading to better long-term outcomes and increased survival rates.

FAQs

Can adults undergo the Glenn procedure?

The Glenn procedure is primarily performed in children with congenital heart defects and is not commonly done in adults.

What is the typical recovery time after this procedure?

Recovery time can vary, but most children can return to normal activities within a few weeks to a few months after the surgery.

Are there any dietary restrictions after the Glenn procedure?

Children may need to follow a special diet recommended by their healthcare provider to promote healing and overall heart health.

Can the procedure be performed laparoscopically?

While some aspects of the surgery can be done laparoscopically, the Glenn procedure is typically performed as an open-heart surgery.

Are there any long-term risks or complications associated with the Glenn procedure?

While the Glenn procedure is generally safe, some long-term risks include the development of arrhythmias, protein-losing enteropathy, or Fontan-associated liver disease. Regular follow-up appointments with a cardiologist are essential to monitor for any potential complications.