Sedation for transcatheter replacement of Melody® pulmonary valve: Case report ☆

Abstract Introduction Valved conduits for surgically reconstructing the outflow tract of the right ventricle have improved the prognosis for certain congenital heart diseases. When they become dysfunctional, transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement is safe and effective. Clinical findings, diagnostic evaluation and interventions We report the case of a 21 years old female patient diagnosed with transposition of great vessels corrected in childhood. After several surgeries, she presents a dysfunction of the right ventricle. In response, a “Melody ® ” pulmonary valve was implanted percutaneously under deep sedation. Conclusion The ideal anesthetic technique for transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement is controversial. There is a debate over the merits of general anesthesia and deep sedation. Each case must be decided on after a careful preoperative evaluation, considering the risk/benefit and patient cooperation. The experience at our center using deep sedation is promising, but we have an alternative plan to convert to general anesthesia if necessary.