The Thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon
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Ebstein's malformation can be defined as an anomaly of the tricuspid valve existing in the setting of a right ventricular dysfunction. The technique introduced by Carpentier in 1980 is based on the concept of mobilization of the restrictive anterosuperior leaflet associated with a longitudinal plication of the inlet component of the right ventricle. From January 1980 to December 1999, 142 patients underwent surgery. ⋯ We conclude that tricuspid valvoplasty associated with longitudinal right ventricular plication is superior to valve replacement. The arrangement producing a tricuspid sack is not suitable for conservative surgery. An associated cavo-pulmonary anastomosis decreases the operative mortality in patients at high risk, and seems to preserve right ventricular function.