Dead space fractions in neonates following first-stage palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

Thirty-four neonates received either a Blalock-Taussig shunt (20.5%), Sano shunt (59%), or hybrid procedure (20.5%). Hospital mortality was 8.8%. Dead space fractions in patients undergoing the hybrid procedure were significantly lower on day 1 (p = 0.01) and day 2 (p = 0.02) and increased over time. A dead space fraction >0.6 on post-operative days 3-5 was significantly associated with decreased duration of mechanical ventilation in all surgical groups (p 0.6 on post-operative days 3-5 was associated with lower duration of mechanical ventilation in all surgical groups. A more comprehensive, prospective assessment of dead space in this delicate patient population would likely be beneficial in improving outcomes.