Valved Bovine Jugular Vein Conduits for Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Reconstruction in Children: An Attractive Alternative to Pulmonary Homograft

The Contegra conduit offers a promising alternative for RVOT reconstruction. Early hemodynamic performance compares favorably with PHs. Clinical advantages are greater availability in sizes from 12 to 22 mm and natural continuity between the valve and conduit that allows proximal infundibular shaping without additional materials. The price of the bovine jugular venous valve is approximately one-half that of many PHs in the US. Short-term freedom from dysfunction is at least as good as PHs. Long-term durability must be determined for this new conduit. The Contegra conduit is currently our conduit of choice for RVOT reconstruction in infants, children, and young adults.