The bidirectional Glenn procedure serves as a staging operation, which prepares the patient for the eventual Fontan procedure normally performed at a later time. The surgeon creates a connection from the superior vena cava to the pulmonary artery, which establishes the shunt. It is used primarily as a treatment for a congenital heart defect in children that reduces the amount of oxygenated blood circulating through the body. The telltale sign of this is a bluish tint to the fingernails, lips, and skin.
The procedure will improve the flow of oxygen rich blood, but it is not the final step. Your child will still need to have a Fontan procedure to complete the repair. After the bidirectional Glenn, your child will likely remain in the hospital three to seven days to ensure proper healing.